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With the aim of strengthening ties between science and policy, four experts shared key experiences on how to bring scientific knowledge closer to government processes in Latin America and the Caribbean during a roundtable held as part of the course “Science for Public Policy: Strategies for Science Diplomacy and Scientific Advice” in Montevideo, Uruguay.

The dialogue, titled “Cooperation Instruments in the Region for Scientific Advice,” focused on scientific cooperation and its fundamental role in the design of public policies. RedCLARA participated in this space, which brought together experts from various institutions committed to promoting science as a tool for sustainable development in Latin America and the Caribbean.

The event was moderated by Lorenzo Melchor, advisor to Spain’s National Office for Scientific Advice (ONAC), and featured the participation of Mary Fernández, Cooperation and International Relations Officer at RedCLARA. In her presentation, Fernández highlighted the work of the regional advanced network in strengthening collaboration between scientific institutions, enhancing academic connectivity, and supporting the development of evidence-based public policies. She also emphasized RedCLARA’s efforts to promote platforms and partnerships that facilitate the use of science in decision-making and its contribution to the advancement of science, education, technology, and innovation in the region by articulating, connecting, and strengthening national research and education networks.

Other participants included Viviana Mezzetta from the Uruguayan Agency for International Cooperation (AUCI), who shared her experience integrating science into development cooperation; Claudia Romano from the CELAC Working Group on Research Infrastructures, who provided insights on regional collaboration frameworks; and María Esther Cruells from Cuba’s Ministry of Science, Technology, and Environment, who underscored the importance of international consortiums in shaping informed public policies.

During the conversation, the panelists shared examples of research projects that have influenced public policy and discussed strategies to strengthen the link between science and government. Topics also included the need to train more individuals in science diplomacy, identify shared priorities, and foster collaboration among key regional actors.

This dialogue highlighted the urgent need to integrate scientific knowledge into decision-making in the face of challenges such as climate change, pandemics, and digital transformation. Doing so enables the design of more effective public policies focused on people’s well-being.