Science Diplomacy as Assessed by Heads of Representative Offices of the Russian Federation in Switzerland

Abstract

Introduction. The article analyses the relevant content of the “science diplomacy” concept and describes the key trends of its implementation, taking into account the points of view of current Russian diplomats on the problem. Science diplomacy is becoming a relevant area of diplomatic activity under the conditions of modern globalization processes. As an important area of the activity of the state, it implies not only the establishment of effective science cooperation with other countries but also optimal use of its own scientific potential with a view to upholding the national interests and improving the image of the state. Methods and materials. The authors have reviewed a number of expert points of view from modern researchers. Based on the use of general and special scientific methods, some important conclusions have been drawn concerning the specifics of the development and relevant content of science diplomacy. By comparing and systematising the empirical data obtained from a number of sources, some scientifically significant directions of state activity in this area have been determined. Analysis. By summarising cases from diplomatic practice, the authors seek to determine the role of science diplomacy in the implementation of the current foreign policy tasks of the Russian Federation. According to the results of interviews with S.V. Garmonin, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Russian Federation in the Swiss Confederation, and A.B. Dorovskikh, Consul General of Russia in Geneva, the basic principles of the practical filling of the “science diplomacy” concept in the activities of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs are formulated. Results. The authors come to the conclusion about the consistent improvement of the forms and methods of implementing the scientific direction of Russian diplomacy. At the same time, against the background of a deterioration of the international environment and the politicisation of many areas of international cooperation by the countries of the collective West, there exists the task of further improving the effectiveness of the activities of Russian diplomatic structures to defend the scientific and technological sovereignty of the country. Authors’ contribution. E.A. Antyukhova wrote the sections “Introduction” and “Results,” participated together with V.D. Olshanskaya in writing the section “Materials and Methods,” and prepared the final scientific edition of the text of the work. I.V. Kuznetsov developed the concept of the article and the questionnaire for the interview. V.D. Olshanskaya and E.A. Antyukhova wrote the sections “Analysis” and “Materials and Methods” and also acted as an interviewer.