On 29 May 2026 the Council adopted a recommendation on a European Union framework for science diplomacy. The proposal had been adopted by the European Commission on 27 February 2026, alongside a package of other measures to support research and innovation (see ACA Newsletter — Education Europe, March 2026).  

The main goal of the framework is to a create a “shared vision, common narrative and pragmatic code of conduct in the field of science diplomacy,” with values as a central component. It also aims to provide guidance to the member states in their strategic and operational approaches to science diplomacy. 

The objectives of the framework are to put forward a vision and develop a common code of conduct in science diplomacy through: 

• safeguarding and promoting the Union’s democratic values, strategic interests and technological and data sovereignty 
• strengthening the Union’s position as one of the leading global science and technology actors through open and secure international scientific cooperation 
• enhancing trust in science, fostering the uptake of foresight and scientific advice in decision-making processes, and promoting public engagement 
• maximising the impact of the Union’s research and innovation potential for the pursuit of peace, protection of human rights, multilateralism and a rule-based international order 
• reinforcing the Union’s commitment to managing global public goods and commons sustainably, fighting the triple planetary crisis of climate change, biodiversity loss and pollution, and contributing to the achievement of the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Sustainable Development Goals 

The framework builds on the recommendations of the expert report, published by the European Commission in February 2025, titled “A European Framework for Science Diplomacy – Recommendations of the EU Science Diplomacy Working Groups”.