By Mark DaCosta- Today, November 10, World Science Day for Peace and Development is celebrated by Guyana and the international community. The day was first observed in 2002 after a proclamation was approved by the General Assembly of the United Nations (UN) in 2001. According to the proclamation, this day serves as a reminder of the critical role that science plays in addressing global challenges and fostering a culture of peace. The theme for World Science Day for Peace and Development 2023 is “Science for a Sustainable Future.”
Regarding this year’s observance, the UN issued a statement including the following text:
The day aims to Strengthen public awareness of the role of science for peaceful and sustainable societies;
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Promote national and international solidarity for shared science between countries;
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Renew national and international commitment for the use of science for the benefit of societies;
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Draw attention to the challenges faced by science in raising support for the scientific endeavour.
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The statement notes, too, that, “The Day has also helped foster cooperation between scientists living in regions marred by conflict – one example being the UN-supported creation of the Israeli-Palestinian Science Organisation (IPSO).”
According to experts, science, in its broadest sense, encompasses the systematic study of the natural world through observation, experimentation, and analysis. It is a collaborative and dynamic process that seeks to understand the underlying principles governing the universe and to harness this knowledge for the betterment of humanity.
Science encompasses a wide variety of disciplines including physics, chemistry, biology, environmental science, and social sciences, all of which contribute to our understanding of the world.
Regarding the role of science in promoting peace and development, one recognises that in Guyana’s context, science provides the foundation for evidence-based decision-making. This enables policymakers such as government officials, regional decision-makers, local government councils, and community leaders to address challenges such as climate change, public health issues, and resource management challenges. That last point may include mitigation of possible adverse events such as oil spills and other environmental matters that may arise as Guyana develops a ballooning extractive sector.
Also, experts have written that it is through scientific research and innovation that solutions can be found to mitigate the impact of natural disasters, improve agricultural practices, and advance healthcare systems.
In past years, the UN has expressed the view that by promoting scientific literacy and education, World Science Day for Peace and Development aims to empower individual, ordinary people to critically engage with scientific information – and scientists themselves – and contribute to informed decision-making in their own communities.
