Programme / Plenary session I – TRUST IN SCIENCE – Conceptualizing Trust in Science

The session Conceptualizing Trust in Science aims to put trust in science into context through the exploration of key themes such as capacity building, public understanding and accountability. Discussions will navigate the complexities of trust in an evolving world, offering insights and actionable steps for diverse societal actors to strengthen trust in science. They will explore the wider range of factors and stakeholders that play a role in influencing the level of uptake of science, to enhance evidence-informed decision-making and behavior, enabling more effective actions when tackling global challenges.

Research reveals a nuanced landscape of trust in science globally. Whereas some highlight the damaging effects of the proliferation of disinformation and misinformation, exacerbated by social media and artificial intelligence, others contrastingly indicate high or increasing levels of trust in science internationally. The situation also varies across countries, disciplines and topics. As we face global transformations and challenges, trust in science does appear to influence the uptake of science, but is just one of multiple such factors. This is supported by the findings of the International Science Council's recent report, "The Contextualization Deficit: Reframing Trust in Science for Multilateral Policy," which, in addition to recognizing the need to promote trust in science, emphasizes the need to understand the contextual intricacies shaping the adoption and acceptance of science by societal and policy actors.
An important aspect of this contextualization exercise is the issue of ‘values’ and the creation of an enabling environment for trust in science. The study notes the need to recognize and address the differing values of publics and stakeholders involved in multilateral problems and policy-making. In this regard, the systematic application of the universal values of human rights – and the emphasis on freedom of scientific research, the right to scientific advancement and its benefits, inclusion and non-discrimination, transparency and accountability – can provide solid guidance in situations of real or perceived clash.