**Skourides Represents Cyprus at European Science Forums**
Cyprus' Chief Scientist for Research, Innovation and Technology, Demetris Skourides, recently participated in two significant European science and policy meetings held in Austria and Germany. These gatherings focused on the vital role of scientific advice in shaping decisions within the European Union (EU).
Skourides first attended the European Science Advisors Forum (ESAF) Intermediate Meeting on June 10, 2026, in Vienna, Austria. This meeting was hosted by the Austrian Academy of Sciences, reflecting Austria's current chairmanship of ESAF. The forum, established in 2014 through an initiative by the European Commission, serves as a platform for EU-level discussions aimed at promoting the integration of scientific evidence in policymaking. It also facilitates the exchange of best practices among its members and encourages reflection on the significance of scientific advice in both political and non-political decision-making contexts.
In his role, Skourides not only represents Cyprus but also participates in ESAF's Executive Committee and serves as the Deputy Chair. During the Vienna meeting, delegates engaged in discussions concerning the future of scientific advice in Europe. Key topics included the European Code of Principles for Scientific Advice for Policy and Society and the concept of Anticipatory Scientific Advice for Security and Resilience in Europe. These discussions are particularly relevant as the EU seeks to enhance its decision-making processes through evidence-based approaches.
Following the ESAF meeting, Skourides traveled to Karlsruhe, Germany, to represent Cyprus at the 139th Meeting of the Board of Governors of the Joint Research Centre (JRC) of the European Commission, which took place on June 11 and 12. The JRC functions as the EU’s in-house scientific and technical service, offering independent, evidence-based scientific advice to support various EU policies. Its work encompasses a wide array of critical areas, including climate change, environmental protection, public health, food safety, nuclear energy, and the digital transition.
During the JRC meeting, Skourides presented an overview of Cyprus’ achievements in research and innovation, particularly highlighting the country's contributions during its Presidency of the Council of the European Union. The agenda for the meeting also included discussions on the Multiannual Financial Framework for 2028–2034, nuclear safety and security, and the JRC's collaboration with FRONTEX, the European Border and Coast Guard Agency.
These meetings provided Cyprus with a valuable opportunity to engage in European dialogues about enhancing the role of science in supporting policy, security, and resilience. As the importance of evidence-based decision-making grows within the EU, Skourides' participation underscores Cyprus' commitment to contributing to these critical discussions.
The upcoming ESAF Annual General Assembly, scheduled for early December in Brussels, will continue to build on the discussions initiated in Vienna, further emphasizing the need for scientific advice in shaping effective EU policies.