We cannot manage our natural resources sustainably and halt biodiversity loss without sound data and a good understanding of natural cycles, ecosystem services and functions, and the impacts of human activities. In order to address the critical global challenges that hinge on science, including food and water security, energy and climate change, both scientists and policy makers must be mobilized. Though its international programmes, UNESCO fosters scientific collaboration and promotes expanding the knowledge-base, including scientific, indigenous and local knowledge.

UNESCO works closely with vulnerable communities that are often on the sidelines of development and decision making, including indigenous peoples, Small Island Developing States and women, to ensure that their unique perspectives and knowledge are taken into consideration. UNESCO has been influential in ensuring that local and indigenous knowledge holders are included in contemporary science-policy-society fora. Furthermore, in order to address the persistent gender gap in science, technology, engineering and mathematics, UNESCO supports women scientists through networks and mentoring programmes and promotes women’s participation in policy-making processes.