MAK’IT international conference: what roles for science in crisis times?

Organized by the Montpellier Institute for Advanced Knowledge on Transitions (MAKIT), in collaboration with the South Centre, the 2022 MAK’IT conference ‘What roles for science in crisis times? Outlook in the Health, Environment, and Agriculture Interconnected Areas’ featured a series of panels and discussions that highlighted the importance of interdisciplinary approaches, the integration of local and global knowledge, and the ethical responsibilities of scientists during crises.

The Montpellier Institute for Advanced Knowledge on Transitions (MAK’IT) hosted a pivotal conference in 2022, focusing on the critical role of science during crises. The event gathered a diverse array of experts, including scientists, policymakers, and representatives from various sectors, to explore how scientific communities can effectively respond to and navigate crises. Discussions among eminent specialists addressed new crisis scenarios related to health, environment and agriculture in their different dimensions, examine the complex science-policy-public interactions at play, and the role of science and scientists in the search for sustainable and long-lasting solutions for crisis resolution. Gary Machlis, a Professor of Environmental Sustainability at Clemson University, opened the panel ‘Scientists in crisis? Keys to navigate an intricate landscape of requests’ with a keynote address:

A scientist who tells a decision maker in government ‘I think this will happen if you do this particular response’ won’t gain traction at least they can say: ‘I believe this will happen, and here’s the level of uncertainty I attach to my prediction’. So uncertainty assessment becomes a critical tool of science during crisis.

Gary Machlis

Paul Shrivastava, Director of the Sustainability Institute at Penn State University, discussed the institutional changes that crises can trigger. He argued that crises are not isolated events but processes that unfold over time and space, offering multiple opportunities for decision-making.

The role of science during times of crisis remains a critical topic of discussion. Panel discussions brought together experts from diverse fields to explore this very issue. The discourse revolved around the integration of science into crisis management, the ethical responsibilities of scientists, and the structural changes required to enhance the effectiveness of scientific interventions during emergencies.

One of the key takeaways from the panels was the need for a paradigm shift in the approach to scientific research and application during crises. Traditional scientific methods often follow a linear progression from theory to application. However, in crisis situations, this sequence may need to be reversed, with immediate application guiding data collection and theoretical development. This requires a significant alteration in the logic model of scientific practice, emphasizing the necessity for rapid and flexible responses that prioritize actionable knowledge.

One panel also highlighted the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in addressing complex crises. In scenarios where multiple disciplines intersect, such as environmental disasters or pandemics, no single field can provide comprehensive solutions. Thus, breaking down institutional barriers and fostering collaboration across disciplines is essential. This approach not only accelerates the pace of scientific response but also ensures that solutions are holistic and relevant to the needs of decision-makers and affected communities.

Furthermore, the discussion underscored the critical role of communication in the effective deployment of science during crises. Scientists must engage in dialogue with policymakers, emergency responders, and the public to ensure the dissemination of usable knowledge. This involves not only providing predictions and explanations but also conveying the associated uncertainties. Effective communication can bridge the gap between scientific knowledge and practical decision-making, facilitating informed responses to crises.

Ethical considerations also formed a significant part of the conversation. The panelists advocated for the development of a code of conduct specific to science during crises. This would address issues such as data collection ethics, respect for affected communities, and the responsible communication of scientific findings. Such guidelines are vital to maintaining the integrity of scientific practice and ensuring that interventions are both effective and equitable.

Another pressing issue discussed was the impact of crises on scientific freedom and the safety of scientists. The panel noted a worrying trend of harassment and threats against scientists, particularly those working on contentious issues such as climate change. Protecting scientific freedom and ensuring the safety of researchers is paramount to advancing science that serves the public good. This involves fostering supportive working environments and advocating for policies that uphold the principles of scientific integrity and freedom.

Finally, the panel called for a reevaluation of existing institutional structures that govern scientific research and practice. The current systems often penalize non-conventional career paths and transdisciplinary work, which are increasingly necessary in addressing global challenges. By reforming these structures to encourage collaboration, flexibility, and innovation, the scientific community can better contribute to crisis management and sustainable development goals.

The 2022 MAK’IT conference underscored the critical role of science in addressing and navigating crises. The discussions highlighted the importance of interdisciplinary approaches, the integration of local and global knowledge, and the ethical responsibilities of scientists. The conference also emphasized the need for institutional changes, effective communication strategies, and practical, context-specific solutions. As the world continues to face complex and interconnected crises, the insights and recommendations from this conference provide a valuable roadmap for the scientific community to enhance its contributions to global resilience and sustainability. By addressing these areas, the scientific community can enhance its capacity to respond to crises effectively, ensuring that science remains a cornerstone of global resilience and progress.