World Science Day for Peace and Development

World Science Day for Peace and Development

World Science Day for Peace and Development aims to promote the importance of science and technology in contributing towards peace, sustainable development, and improving the lives of individuals across the globe. This international event highlights the interplay between science and society and seeks to facilitate dialogues among scientists, policymakers, and stakeholders to address pressing global challenges. Moreover, it emphasizes including diverse voices – particularly those of women and young people – in the scientific process and decision-making to foster innovative and inclusive scientific advancements.

Established by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in 2001, World Science Day for Peace and Development calls upon nations worldwide to collaborate and share their scientific knowledge and expertise to tackle climate change, health crises, and education. For Canadians, this observance serves as an opportunity to celebrate the country's rich scientific heritage and achievements and promote the role of Canadian scientists and innovators in addressing major global problems. Furthermore, the objectives of this annual event align with Canada's commitments to sustainable development, science diplomacy, and fostering gender equality in the field of science and technology.

In Canada, World Science Day for Peace and Development is observed through various events and activities organized by local institutions, educational establishments, and scientific organizations across the country to promote dialogues and partnerships in scientific research to advance peace and development. These activities include public lectures, workshops, seminars, and exhibitions focusing on science, technology, and innovation. World Science Day for Peace and Development is celebrated worldwide on the 10th of November, with Canadians joining in to recognize the significant contributions that science and technology make to their lives and their nation's overall progress.

Facts about this United Nations Observance

• The theme for World Science Day for Peace and Development in 2024 was Why Science Matters: Engaging Minds and Empowering Futures. In 2023 the theme was Building trust in science.
• Science encompasses almost everything in the world. It is an enterprise that builds predictions that are testable and predictable and can be organized into universally distributed knowledge for other to verify.
• According to the 2024 edition of the Global Innovation Index, Switzerland is the most innovative economy in the world for the 14th year in a row. The country with the second most innovative economy is Sweden.
• IDRC is a Canadian Crown corporation that focuses on funding and supporting research for development in various parts of the world, including peace and security, agriculture and the environment, and inclusive innovation.
• Canada has often been a leader in the promotion and development of renewable energy sources. For example, Quebec is home to Hydro-Québec, one of the world's largest producers of clean hydroelectric power.

In the News and Trending in Canada for World Science Day for Peace and Development

Top things to do in Canada for this observance

• Spread awareness on social media by using the hashtag #WorldScienceDayforPeaceandDevelopment, #Science=Peace and #ScienceMatters.
• Read a book about science. Even science fiction books can provide a great foundation to appreciate science today. Some suggestions are: A Brief History of Time, On the Origin of the Species and Cosmos.
• Scientists, researchers, and science enthusiasts can participate in science outreach programs by visiting schools, community centers, or libraries to conduct interactive workshops, demonstrations, or presentations. This helps inspire young minds and foster their curiosity for science.
• Many science centers and museums across Canada host special events and activities on World Science Day. These events often include interactive exhibits, science demonstrations, and workshops focusing on scientific principles and achievements.