Science for Democracy is an organization that promotes the Rule of Law through the affirmation of the Right to Science, the adoption of evidence-based decisions and the promotion of public debates to foster human development. It aims to consolidate democracy as the sole institutional framework which can advance the Right to Science globally. Issues central to the activities of Science for Democracy are the environment and its various ecosystems, human freedom, health and quality of life. Anyone can join Science for Democracy. Science for Democracy reaches out to the UN Committee for Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ESCR) as well as other organizations and individuals to engage them in view of the full adoption of the Right to Science by the UN Council on Human Rights in spring 2019.
Science for Democracy also calls upon European institutions, the Members of the European Parliament and the Member States of the EU to account for the Right to Science in the 9th Framework Program for Research and Innovation of the European Union (2021 – 2027), advocating for the increase of resources, the funding of cutting-edge research, and the establishment of an independent and transparent process of evaluation of the innovation and policy impacts of the projects funded.
Here is the Position Paper that was presented in Brussels on 17 October to a selected group of Members of the European Parliament.
Science for Democracy promotes activities that:
Advocate
For the implementation of the Right to Science in the institutional, policy and legal frameworks of both United Nations and European Union Member States.
Disseminate
The International Appeal for the Right to Science launched at the 5th meeting of the World Congress for Freedom of Scientific Research in 2018.
Consolidate
And expand the compilation of the "Index on freedom of science and self-determination", presenting its outcomes every two years to decision makers and the public.
Engage
Thinkers, practitioners, jurists, scientists and policy-makers in strengthening the relation between scientific
progress and decision-making processes.
Coordinate
The elaboration and submission of country "shadow reports" focused on the implementation of the Right to Science.
Promote
The awareness of governments and citizens regarding the Right to Science by supporting national, regional and local activities and the organization of public events.