Science diplomacy (SD) is a multidisciplinary, transversal, and cross-cutting field, concerning the practices at the intersection of scientific results and diplomatic actions. It empowers actors to understand the societal impact of science and technology and enables development of political and diplomatic solutions, as exemplified by  governance efforts on climate change, artificial intelligence (AI), neurotechnology, and other topics of global  strategic and sensitive relevance.

The  ZHAW Center of Artificial Intelligence(CAI )is one of the founding members of the COST action “Science in Diplomacy Network: implementing multilateral policymaking in intersectoral, cross-disciplinary & strategic domains” (SiDnet). This network will start operating in October 2025. The main goal of SiDnet is to create a network that fosters interdisciplinary, cross-sectoral and trans-European collaboration among diverse stakeholders, including researchers, policymakers, and industry leaders.  Dr Ricardo Chavarriaga, lead on Responsible AI Innovation will be part of the management committee that will guide the network activities for the next 4 years.

Sidnet activities will be structured along four interconnected Working Groups: WG1, "Diplomacy for Science within technological sovereignty and governance," seeks to facilitate international scientific collaboration while addressing concerns related to technological sovereignty, data governance, and security. WG2, "Science in Diplomacy for global challenges and sustainability," aims to integrate scientific advice into foreign policy, especially in relation to global challenges like climate change. WG3, "Science for Diplomacy via international scientific cooperation in difficult geopolitical contexts," focuses on using scientific collaboration to improve relations between nations, especially in regions of geopolitical tension. WG4, "Communication, Dissemination, Training, and Networking," ensures the widespread impact of the Action through public outreach, training, and effective dissemination of results.

The leadership role of the Responsible AI Innovation group at CAI in this network strengthens our portfolio of activities for empowering every stakeholder in the AI innovation landscape on the design and adoption of best practices for AI development, adoption and governance. Yet another proof that our centre is fully committed to "walk the talk" of steering technology for the common good.