Science at State
Conceding that "the State Department's science capabilities have not always been as substantial as they should be," U.S. Secretary of State Madeleine K. Albright promised a number of improvements last month. Speaking at a plenary session at the annual meeting of the American Association for the Advancement of Science, Albright said she will issue a policy statement this month "setting forth my commitment to enhance the department's ability to handle [science and technology] issues and to improve our access to the experts who can help us." She also outlined several other measures, including the appointment of a science adviser position within the Undersecretariat for Global Affairs; establishment of a Science Directorate within the Bureau of Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs; a boost in "solid scientific competence throughout the department"; a review of science counselor positions worldwide; and the forging of "a truly active partnership with...Interested in reading more?
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