Insecurity and COVID-19 pandemic have thrust the Sahel Region into an unprecedented crisis – one that underscores more than ever the vital need to tackle regional & global threats with a unified, multilateral approach, infused by solid science and practical diplomacy.
Burkina Faso rely on the tenacity and dedication of its people to build constructive partnerships that help accelerate Africa's Transformation through technological innovation and a practical approach to Science Diplomacy.
We strive to emerge from a regional security crisis into a changed world. A world that dictate the crucial need for preparedness, international collaboration and science-driven policies that COVID-19 has so clearly demonstrated.
Challenges related to food, water and energy resources are among the most widespread problems in Africa, particularly in the Sahel region. This region is subject to climatic changes, population pressure and water scarcity, which exacerbate inter-communal conflicts, resulting in increased poverty, weakened public services and disruption of traditional means of survival. The inextricable links between water, food security and energy issues in the Sahel, are challenges and opportunities.
The SciD Conference (series) is to support the exchange of knowledge and strengthen the engagement of the scientific and diplomatic communities contributing to Africa transformation with a strong emphasis to breaking down gender barriers.
SciD2021 Burkina Faso, is convened to remind ourselves that many carefully crafted regional and/or international agreements should not just be pieces of paper. These negotiated compromises- when backed by Science- can foster trust & solidarity, and ultimately provide long-term security to all.
An urgent need to strengthen the nexus between science and diplomacy.
The importance of science and scientific knowledge in informing diplomatic discussions, and providing apolitical facts for decision-making and negotiations, cannot be overstated. Science canbe an avenue to open up cooperation, reach beyond political differences and help to build trust and understanding. It can serve as an efficient tool for dialogue in times of relative distance or disagreement, and offer platforms for new forms of interaction and resolution on topics that are politically sensitive.
Sciences unite countries to address cross-border challenges such as pandemics, climate change, energy supply and poverty eradication, which are simply out of reach for any single nation to address independently. The 2015 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) provide a solid endorsement of global scientific cooperation on issues that are vital for all human beings, irrespective of region, culture or identity. In many areas, no solutions are possible without the contribution of scientists.
The COVID-19 pandemic remains a vivid reminder, exactly as terrorism has thrown a stark light on the strong need for cooperation and preparedness.