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.

Recommendations

1. Develop a cohesive national narrative that champions science as essential to the UK's resilience, prosperity, and global leadership.
2. Leverage the expertise of DSIT 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.
4. Expand the UK's scientific and academic mobility schemes.
5. Restore and scale targeted international science funds.