Science and Society
Strengthening the role of science in society is at the core of ALLEA’s priorities. Our culture, our political and economic systems and even people’s daily lives are continuously affected by scientific and scholarly work. At the same time, science itself is subject to social and cultural changes. This reciprocal connection requires that science engages with different societal groups and with the general public and it puts scientific values, processes and thinking at the core of the wider public debate.
To stimulate this dialogue and understanding, ALLEA encourages reflections on trust in science, science communications and the promotion of science education through its working groups and expert committees. ALLEA organises public events to engage the wider public in scientific debates, and honours the work of intellectuals and scholars who contribute to an understanding of European integration and its values.
Trust in Science
At the heart of these efforts is the ALLEA Task Force “Strengthening Trust in Science“, which examines how scientific advice is produced, communicated, and received across Europe. Its work complements ALLEA’s broader contributions to the European Research Area (ERA), where ALLEA leads on a structural policy that promotes enhancing trust in science through citizen participation, engagement and science communication.
Academic Freedom
ALLEA works to safeguard academic freedom by supporting member academies under political or financial pressure, engaging with policymakers at the European level, and speaking out globally when researchers’ rights are threatened. Through advocacy, statements, and partnerships, ALLEA promotes an environment where critical inquiry, open debate, and scientific discovery can thrive.
ALLEA Madame de Staël Prize
The ALLEA Madame de Staël Prize was established in 2014. It is named after Anne Louise Germaine de Staël-Holstein, commonly known as Madame de Staël – a prominent philosopher, woman of letters, and political theorist of the 18th and 19th centuries. She represents a vision of Europe shaped by its longstanding intellectual and cultural values.
Supporting At-Risk Scholars
ALLEA has a long-standing commitment to supporting at-risk scholars, particularly in contexts of conflict and threats to academic freedom. Immediately following the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, ALLEA partnered with the Breakthrough Prize Foundation to support scholars and scientific institutions impacted by the war.
