23 Oct Science and Soft Power: Building a New Narrative for the UK’s Role in the World

The British Foreign Policy Group’s latest report, ‘Science and Soft Power: Building a New Narrative for the UK’s Role in the World’, explores how the UK’s world-leading scientific expertise can strengthen the UK’s global influence in an era of growing geopolitical competition.

Drawing on input from a series of expert roundtables with leaders from across the science and foreign policy sectors, the report argues that the UK’s scientific ecosystem makes a key contribution to the UK’s international ambitions, by helping to foster trust and deepen international partnerships. 

As the UK looks to define its role in a fast changing world, the report identifies opportunities to better leverage the UK’s scientific expertise – from AI and technology to life sciences and global health – and, in turn, opportunities for authentic UK leadership in the world.

To achieve this, we recommend that the UK:

Recommendations

1. Develop a cohesive national narrative that champions science as essential to the UK’s resilience, prosperity, and global leadership, ensuring this is amplified through coordinated messaging across government, media, science and cultural institutions.

2. Leverage the expertise of the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, and external scientific experts, to develop a thematic focus on science in the Government’s upcoming Soft Power Strategy.

3. Embed scientific expertise in key FCDO planning and infrastructure, including wider diplomatic training and strategy development.

4. Expand the UK’s scientific and academic mobility schemes, including youth exchanges, fellowships, and talent and visa pathways.

5. Restore and scale targeted international science funds.

Read the Full Report

This report forms part of an ongoing programme of work between BFPG and the Wellcome Trust on the soft power implications of UK science. To learn more about this programme of work please contact Senior Research and Programmes Manager Eliza Keogh – eliza.keogh@bfpg.co.uk.