UN Secretary-General unveils Science and Technology Advisory Board

The United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres, announced the creation of a Scientific Advisory Board to provide independent advice on breakthroughs in science and technology. The board will consist of seven eminent scholars, including the director of Stanford’s Institute for Human-Centered AI and Yoshua Bengio, Scientific Director of Mila, alongside the Chief Scientists of UN System entities, the Secretary-General’s Envoy on Science and the UN University Rector.

This initiative aims to ensure that UN leaders have access to expert guidance and insights from the scientific community when making decisions related to science and technology. The creation of this advisory board highlights the growing recognition of the importance of scientific knowledge and expertise in addressing global challenges and achieving sustainable development goals.

By bringing together experts from various fields, the board will be able to provide a diverse range of perspectives and insights to inform UN policies and actions. The specific role and responsibilities of the Scientific Advisory Board are yet to be fully detailed. However, the board is expected to provide advice on emerging scientific breakthroughs, technological advancements, and their potential benefits and risks for various aspects, including the environment, health, and socio-economic development.

Why does it matter? Overall, creating a Scientific Advisory Board demonstrates the UN’s commitment to leveraging scientific knowledge and expertise based on reliable data and solid evidence to address global challenges and promote sustainable development. By seeking independent advice from renowned experts, the UN aims to make informed decisions and take effective actions in the face of rapid scientific and technological advancements.