In a world marked by rapid technological change, complex global risks, and mounting pressure on institutions to adapt, the ability to think ahead and lead with science and foresight has become a critical skill for policymakers, diplomats, and international professionals.
This one-week executive education course equips participants with the tools, mindsets, and methods to design policies that are not only evidence-informed but future-ready. Through a dynamic blend of expert-led sessions, real-world case studies, interactive workshops, and a visit to CERN, participants will explore how science, foresight, and innovation can be integrated into strategic policy development and international engagement.
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Objectives
- Apply systems thinking and evidence-based frameworks to define and evaluate options, and craft innovative interventions for rapidly changing environments
- Communicate complex data and research findings in concise, persuasive policy briefs, memos, and strategic narratives tailored to senior decision-makers
- Collaborate effectively with scientists, technologists, diplomats, and multistakeholder actors to shape international agreements and governance norms for emerging issues
- Employ horizon scanning and scenario planning to anticipate disruptive trends and ensure ongoing policy adaptability and resilience
- Understand the interface of science, technology and foresight in policymaking
- Analyse the role of science and technology diplomacy in addressing global challenges
Who should apply?
This programme is particularly relevant for mid-to senior-level practitioners from various organisations working or aspiring to work as:
- Early career diplomats and members of permanent missions
- Professionals in the fields of humanitarian affairs, security, and international cooperation
- Policy and governance officers and head of programme
Certificate
Executive Certificate of Attendance for the Foresight and Science for Policymaking programme
DAY 1
Foundations of policymaking
- Practical skills to translate scientific knowledge in support of policymaking
- Policy design and drafting for impact
DAY 2
Science and technology diplomacy
- Science Diplomacy: building bridges through knowledge
- Science vs. Tech Diplomacy: converging tracks, shared challenges
DAY 3
Science for resilient policymaking
- Learning visit: CERN
- Science Diplomacy and AI
DAY 4-5
Strategic foresight for resilient policymaking
- Foresight and futures studies: from theory to practice
- Foresight in practice: lessons from international institutions
- Group project: horizon scanning and scenario building
- Foresight-informed policy briefs
- Closing discussion: future-ready policymakers and organisations
Designed for policy advisors, diplomats, and international professionals, this programme explores the science, technology and foresight interface with policymaking, preparing participants to lead with confidence in an age of disruption and uncertainty.
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