The Auckland conference was born from the dual observation that while more governments are recognising the need for and establishing science advice mechanisms, there is little by way of shared lessons about how best to do this. The conference responded to the need for a platform of discussion and sharing that could draw simultaneously from practical experience and scholarly analysis of the field. As an open and accessible event, it also encouraged a range and frankness of input into processes that have traditionally been limited to a ‘members only’ realm of government advisors, and highlighted the commitment to building a network that is inclusive regionally and professionally.
As such, Auckland was evidence not only of the rapidly changing relationship between science and society, but also the changing relationship between the public and their elected officials, as mediated by science.
This synthesis report was prepared by Kristiann Allen under the guidance of Sir Peter Gluckman, Chief Science Advisor to the Prime Minister of New Zealand. It is based on conference rapporteur summaries and has been reviewed by the President of the International Council for Science (ICSU).
Video recordings of the conference can be viewed at www.globalscienceadvice.org.
