As the global landscape becomes increasingly interconnected, the role of education and research networks in science diplomacy is pivotal for fostering trust in science and enhancing international relations. This session will explore how structured networks for education and research can be leveraged as tools for international cooperation and diplomacy. It brings together a diverse set of actors from the science diplomacy ecosystem, encompassing representatives from higher education and research institutions, European Union and government agencies, civil society organizations, and scientific and diplomatic communities.

Opening with an introduction to the CatalySD project, the session will delve into key themes, including cross-sectoral knowledge transfer as a means of building trust in science, education and research networks as drivers of sustainable international cooperation, and the opportunities for capacity building in network-based science diplomacy. Together with our panellists, we envision this event to build and strengthen the pillars of cross-sectoral knowledge transfer, education and research networks, while highlighting their potential to create sustainable drivers for international cooperation. Involving stakeholders related to different aspects of the quadruple helix, the discussion wishes to highlight the potential in capacity building for network-based science diplomacy.