International conference « Strengthening Public Trust in Science »
As our societies face complex challenges such as climate change and health crises, scientific research plays a fundamental role. In this regard, building and maintaining public trust in science is essential for developing evidence-based public policies and ensuring informed democratic decision-making.
After a keynote speech by Kei Koizumi, former Principal Deputy Director for Science, Society, and Policy at the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP), the conference will be divided into four thematic sessions for in-depth discussion on trust in science, its determinants, its vulnerabilities, and ways to strengthen it.
Europe, science and society – Understanding the trust relationship and factors supporting public trust in science
This session will provide an overview of public trust in science across Europe, drawing on key findings from major European and national studies. It will explore how scientific knowledge and critical thinking are considered; ways of building trust; how trust levels vary across countries and demographic groups; and what this means for scientific literacy and public understanding of the scientific method. The session will also examine the key challenges that undermine trust in science, eroding public confidence, as well as how trust in science is shaped by cultural institutions, the media, and social networks.
Trust in science under pressure in an era of controversy and disruptive technological change
This session will explore how moments of controversy, uncertainty, or rapid technological change affect scientific credibility. It will examine the dynamics of trust in selected scientific domains, and why some scientific theories gain public and political traction while others are contested or ignored. In particular, it will examine how policies in other areas such as research ethics or scientific integrity, contribute to building and maintaining credibility.
Strengthening trust through public engagement
This session will explore whether and to what extent public trust depends on the belief that science serves the public good and where and how such alignment between science and values should occur, and what happens when these values conflict. It will highlight the importance of open dialogue, media engagement, and participatory research in fostering greater trust between the scientific community and society.
Institutional and policy responses to strengthen trust in science
This session will explore how research funding and performing organisations and policy makers can actively contribute to building public trust in science. It will discuss their shared responsibility to promote transparency and integrity while helping researchers participate in the public debate without fear of abuse or intimidation. It will also identify effective institutional and policy solutions to strengthen public trust in science.
Detailed program of the conference
Discussions will be held in English, with French translation.
Practical information
Thursday, December 11, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Bibliothèque Nationale de France - François Mitterrand in Paris
Registration
It is also possible to attend the conference remotely (live streaming) by selecting the “online” option when registering.
This conference is organised in partnership with L'Express and The Conversation France.
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