TÜRGEV Connects Youth with Global Science Through UNESCO Summit as Istanbul brings together 27 scholars from 14 countries for the 3rd UNESCO Science Diplomacy and Scientific Heritage Symposium, strengthening Türkiye’s leadership in global science diplomacy.
19 November 2025
Istanbul Hosts UNESCO Science Diplomacy Summit, Strengthening Global Scientific Cooperation
As global challenges increasingly require international scientific collaboration, the initiative TÜRGEV Connects Youth with Global Science Through UNESCO Summit positions Türkiye at the center of global science diplomacy. From 26–28 November 2025, Istanbul will host the 3rd UNESCO Science Diplomacy and Scientific Heritage Symposium, a major global gathering dedicated to strengthening scientific cooperation and enhancing knowledge exchange between regions historically underrepresented in international academic networks.
With the theme “Intercontinental Circulation of Knowledge and Scientific Bridges,” the summit emphasizes inclusive scientific collaboration across the Global South, particularly between the Islamic world and Latin America—two regions with rich intellectual traditions but limited interregional engagement.
Why This UNESCO Summit Matters for Global Science Diplomacy
The UNESCO Science Diplomacy and Scientific Heritage Symposium stands out as a strategic platform advancing:
cross-border scientific partnerships,
equitable access to scientific heritage, and
international dialogue between global institutions.
Its focus directly aligns with UNESCO’s mission to promote peace and development through scientific understanding. By hosting this summit, Türkiye reinforces its growing role in global science diplomacy and offers a critical meeting point for scholars shaping the future of international scientific cooperation.
Istanbul: An Emerging Global Center for Science Diplomacy
Few cities embody intercultural scientific exchange as naturally as Istanbul. Its unique position between Europe, Asia, and the Middle East makes it an ideal host for a science diplomacy summit of this scale. Istanbul provides:
a strategic bridge between global scientific traditions,
a rich heritage of scholarly dialogue, and
a rapidly expanding academic ecosystem aligned with international research priorities.
The city’s role in global science diplomacy has grown significantly in the last decade, making it an increasingly important host for international academic gatherings.
TÜRGEV’s Commitment: Preparing Youth for the Global Scientific Ecosystem
TÜRGEV plays a key role in empowering young researchers by expanding their access to international academic networks. Through partnerships with leading institutions such as UNAM, Ibn Haldun University, and the University of Sharjah, TÜRGEV supports youth engagement in global knowledge circulation.
Statement from TÜRGEV Chairwoman Av. Hatice Akıncı Yılmaz
“Science is the strongest alliance silently built among nations. Hosting such an impactful gathering that elevates Türkiye as a regional scientific hub is an honor. Preparing our youth for the global scientific ecosystem is a responsibility we proudly undertake.”
Her message reinforces TÜRGEV’s dedication to building a globally connected generation equipped for future scientific opportunities.
14 Countries, 27 Scholars: A Truly Global Scientific Summit
This year’s UNESCO summit will welcome 27 scholars from 14 countries, including Canada, Mexico, Colombia, Egypt, Jordan, Oman, Qatar, Switzerland, Türkiye, the UAE, Russia, Syria, Lebanon, and the United States.
This exceptional diversity makes the symposium one of the few international academic platforms effectively connecting the Islamic world, Latin America, Europe, and North America within a shared scientific agenda.
Featured International Scholars
Adeela Arshad-Ayaz
Eduardo Erazo Acosta
Fatima AlSuwaidi
Montserrat Marroquín Rodríguez
Sofía Benítez Villalobos
İrek Süleymanov
Leading Turkish Scholars
Ali Çaksu
Büşra Fidan Ray
Hafsa Betül Kurtaran
Aklil Athroz Arfan
Their participation strengthens Istanbul’s position as a venue for high-level academic exchange.
Academic Committees Strengthening Scientific Integrity
The summit’s academic framework is supported by experts from:
Istanbul Medeniyet University
UNAM
Boğaziçi University
Ibn Haldun University
ITU
University of Sharjah
Key committee members include Prof. Ana María Cetto, Mashhoor Alwardat, Tuncay Zorlu, and Vahdettin Işık, whose contributions ensure scientific rigor.
The Organizing Committee—featuring Afşin Murat Taştan, Ayaz Asadov, Maamoun Abdulkarim, Parsifal Islas-Morale, and Zeynep Tuzcu—coordinates institutional collaboration and ensures a seamless participant experience.
A Leading Global Voice in Science Diplomacy
A highlight of the symposium is the participation of Prof. Ana María Cetto, one of the world’s leading voices in science diplomacy.
Serving as Chair of the UNESCO Chair in Science Diplomacy and Scientific Heritage at UNAM.
Her presence elevates the global visibility and academic prestige of the summit.
Core Scientific Themes Driving the 2025 Summit
The symposium’s six major themes align with emerging global scientific priorities:
Decolonized Scientific Bridges
Promoting inclusive scientific heritage and Global South cooperation.
Digital Knowledge Intersections
Exploring digital infrastructures, data ethics, and global information systems.
Islamic World–Latin America Collaboration
Building new interregional academic alliances.
Cooperation Platforms, Cosmological Approaches & Knowledge Infrastructures
Expanding interdisciplinary discussions among global scholars.
Youth at the Center of Global Science
A core component of the summit is youth engagement. Through the initiative TÜRGEV Connects Youth with Global Science Through UNESCO Summit, young people gain:
access to global scientific networks,
exposure to international research cultures,
opportunities for academic collaboration, and
confidence in global scientific communication.
This long-term investment positions Türkiye’s youth to participate actively in the global science ecosystem.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the main purpose of the UNESCO Science Diplomacy and Scientific Heritage Symposium?
The symposium aims to promote international academic cooperation, strengthen scientific diplomacy, and foster inclusive knowledge exchange among global scholars.
2. Why is TÜRGEV involved in this global scientific initiative?
TÜRGEV’s mission focuses on empowering young people through educational and cultural opportunities. Hosting this summit helps connect youth with the global scientific community.
3. How many countries and scholars are participating in the 2025 symposium?
A total of 27 scholars from 14 countries will participate, representing diverse academic backgrounds.
4. What makes Istanbul a strategic location for this event?
Istanbul’s position between Europe, Asia, and the Middle East makes it an ideal center for cross-cultural scientific dialogue and diplomacy.
5. How does the summit benefit young people in Türkiye?
It provides young people with exposure to global scientific networks, intercultural learning opportunities, and insights from world-leading scholars.
