Diplomacy through science

Interesting view written by two international policy wonks, Kristin M. Lord and Vaughan C. Turekian (Sciencemag is sub. req.).

Why Diplomacy Through Science? Nearly 4 years ago, the United States entered a complex and difficult war with Iraq. Since then, global public opinion regarding the United States has reached all-time lows. Polls in 33 countries indicate that only 40% of those surveyed view America’s influence in the world as mainly positive. In contrast, 45% view China positively and 58% hold favorable views of Europe. Dislike of America extends to long-time friends and allies. Only 30% of Canadians, 21% of Germans, and 15% of Turks hold favorable opinions of the United States.

I think this might reflect a worldwide "Bush fatigue" and those numbers likely won't change until a new President is in office. It probably doesn't matter what party the next President is from as long as (s)he can express a desire to improve this situation. But the administration and State Department can't do all the heavy lifting alone considering how low the poll results are. It'll likely require the participation of many parts of our society, including scientists.

It is time for the scientific community to increase its role in diplomacy—and maybe even take the lead. Nongovernmental scientific organizations are more credible, more nimble, and—as honest brokers—in many cases more respected than the U.S. government overseas. They work at the grassroots level on global problems such as energy, clean water, and health. A vigorous new science diplomacy, oriented to foreign citizens as well as their governments, will promote human well-being, will benefit science, and will catalyze public diplomacy. Our country needs a new era of science diplomacy, and we need the commitment of the U.S. science community behind it.

Great idea! And with adequate coordination between the State Department and other professions, this might just work.