Science, technology and innovation policy

Science, technology and innovation (STI) are essential to foster economic, social and environmental development, the three pillars of sustainable development. To support these three pillars, UNESCO assists and mobilises its Member States and partners to create enabling environments that make STI more accessible, transparent, inclusive, and connected to societal needs.

UNESCO offers technical assistance and advice, publishes policy guidance and toolkits, promotes capacity-building and fosters international collaboration for the development and governance of STI, to strengthen national and regional STI systems.

Research and development can foster sustainable development by building greener, more inclusive societies. UNESCO adopts a human rights-based approach to STI, with a focus on gender equality and priority Africa.

UNESCO Recommendation on Open Science

Paving the way to science that is more accessible, transparent, inclusive and equitable

Global Observatory of Science, Technology and Innovation Policy Instruments

(GO-SPIN): Mapping national STI landscapes and policies and comparing best practices worldwide

L'Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science Programme

A pioneering programme for the promotion of women in science

Science, Technology and Innovation for the Sustainable Development Goals

Joint UN Inter-agency Task Team initiatives

Strengthening science, technology and innovation systems in Africa

a UNESCO – SIDA project

Resources for science technology and innovation policy makers and practitioners