IUSSP Statement on the Russian military offensive in Ukraine

The IUSSP joins the international scientific community (see statements on the International Science Council website) in expressing deep dismay regarding the military offensives being carried out by Russia in Ukraine and concern for Ukraine’s citizens and the impact this conflict will have on all those in the region and beyond.

"This conflict has already generated a grave humanitarian crisis. Science has proven to act as a platform for dialogue even in times of war, and therefore is a resource on which to capitalize to avoid further loss of life and disruption including that to scientific research and infrastructures. The ISC counts members in all countries involved in this conflict. At a time when the demand and the potential for science to provide actionable knowledge to our global challenges on multiple fronts – climate change, the COVID-19 pandemic, and growing inequalities – are greater than ever, the current conflict in Ukraine and its consequences will hamper the power of science to solve problems when we should be harnessing it."  (Read full ISC statement.)

As a member of the International Science Council (ISC), we call attention to the ISC Action Plan for Science in Exile. The ISC and its partners are committed to assisting the global scientific community in welcoming and protecting scientists who have been placed at-risk or become displaced by this conflict, by providing them opportunities to continue their work.

The ISC also provides other resources for scientists at risk, which can be found on the Committee for Freedom and Responsibility in Science repository:

• Advisory note: Procedures for addressing threats to scientific freedom (issued May 2021)
• ISC position on conference and event boycotts (issued May 2021)
• ISC position on visas and online accessibility (issued May 2021)
• Advisory note: Responsibilities for Preventing, Avoiding, and Mitigating Harm to Researchers Undertaking Fieldwork in Risky Settings (issued September 2017)

In light of the current situation, the ISC encourages its members to consider the security and safety of all scientists in members' decision-making about their activities in the region.

The IUSSP stands in solidarity with Ukrainian population scientists, and with our colleagues elsewhere, including in the Russian Federation and Belarus, who have raised their voices against this war, and have defended democracy and human rights.