COVID-19: Open Science and Reinforced Scientific Cooperation

UNESCO is putting in place the elements to strengthen people's resilience, through scientific solutions and increased scientific cooperation.

In the field of Natural Sciences, UNESCO's response is structured around three major pillars:

International and Scientific Cooperation

It is imperative to strengthen/build international scientific cooperation between scientists, decision/policy makers, private practitioners, industries, health professionals and civil society for a multi-dimensional approach to tackling the Coronavirus.

Water for COVID-19

Access to clean and safe water and sanitation is key in fighting COVID-19. UNESCO provides scientific and technical advice, builds capacity for evidence-based, inclusive water policies and for sustainable management of water resources.

Ecological Reconstruction

Science and research must drive change and prepare for the post-crisis. Through an integrated approach valorizing nature, UNESCO’s designated sites (Biosphere reserves, global Geoparks) are powerful tools to heal the rift between humankind and nature.

"Collaboration is really critical for knowledge and data sharing as well as in advancing COVID-19 research. At a time when trade and transport barriers are impeding the movement of critical materials, it is important to underline that science be allowed to lead the global response to this pandemic."

Soumya SwaminathanChief Scientist at the World Health Organization