Science for Poverty Eradication

Science academies can help eradicate poverty and promote sustainable development. This because science-based decision making is crucial to increase the effectiveness of public policies designed to reduce inequalities and impact poverty. Quantitative and qualitative evaluation can influence the success of social programmes, and science can contribute towards the development of new technologies that enhance the access of poor people to goods and services. The IAP General Assembly established the IAP-Science for Poverty Eradication Committee (IAP-SPEC) in 2013. Its main objective is to stimulate the development of a strategy to engage IAP member academies in the global effort to “eradicate poverty and transform economies through sustainable development”. Through the activities of this committee, IAP aims to mobilize its member academies and Regional Networks to interact with governments and society, contributing to the implementation of the SDGs. With the support of the Brazilian Development Bank (BNDES), the Coordination for the Improvement of Higher Education Personnel (CAPES), and the Museum of Tomorrow, the Brazilian Academy of Sciences hosted an International Conference on 'How Can Science and Technology Contribute to the Reduction of Poverty and Inequality', which was held in Rio de Janeiro on 27-29 March, 2019, at the Museum of Tomorrow (27-28 March) and BNDES (29 March). Aim of the conference: Eradicating poverty in all its forms and reducing inequality within and between countries are two of the greatest challenges facing humanity. In order to translate SDG 1 (No Poverty) and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities) into action, a comprehensive understanding of the inherent complexities and intrinsic connections between the SDGs is needed. The goal of this conference was to assemble renowned experts to discuss, motivate and help mobilize the scientific community to contribute to the paramount effort of building a sustainable planet, with more equality, peace and prosperity.     Agenda: Available here. Email contact: Vitor Vieira, Program Officer, Brazilian Academy of Sciences - vvieira@abc.org.br Previous meetings: The March 2019 event in Rio was the third IAP-SPEC Conference. The first was held in Manaus in 2014, and the second in Beijing in 2017. Science for Poverty Eradication Committee: • Luiz Davidovich, Brazilian Academy of Sciences (Chair) • Lai Meng Looi, IAP for Health • Aya Abe, AASSA • Aishah Bidin, AASSA • Richard Catlow, EASAC • Peter Fritz, EASAC • Ricardo Paes de Barros, IANAS • Judith Teichman, IANAS • Yousuf Maudarbocus, NASAC • Ratemo Michieka, NASAC • Robert Lepenies, Global Young Academy