07/21/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 07/21/2026 13:37
For the first time since the report was launched more than three decades ago, UNESCO invited researchers and experts worldwide to express their interest in joining the author teams through an open global call. The initiative generated exceptional interest, with over 3,000 applications received from every UNESCO regional group.
Following a rigorous evaluation process, 157 experts representing more than 70 countries have been selected as authors. The group of experts reflects a broad range of scientific disciplines, as well as policy expertise with national and regional perspectives, ensuring that the report captures the diversity of today's global STI landscape. Particular attention was paid to ensuring multidisciplinary representation, geographical balance, and gender diversity, with women accounting for 42% of authors and men 58%, alongside a mix of established and emerging experts.