NRCT Participates in Global Research Council (GRC) Discussions to Advance the Role of Science Based on “Collaboration and Neutrality” Amid Global Geopolitical Challenges
20 May 2026
NRCT Participates in Global Research Council (GRC) Discussions to Advance the Role of Science Based on “Collaboration and Neutrality” Amid Global Geopolitical Challenges
The National Research Council of Thailand (NRCT), under the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI), continues to strengthen Thailand’s role in international scientific and research cooperation. On behalf of Dr. Wiparat De-Ong, Executive Director of NRCT, Ms. Sirinporn Deawtrakul, Deputy Executive Director of NRCT, participated in the Collaboration and Neutrality Task Group (CNT) Consultation Town Hall held under the framework of the 14th Global Research Council (GRC) Annual Meeting on 19 May 2026 at Dusit Thani Bangkok, Thailand.
The consultation brought together leaders of research funding organizations from around the world to exchange views and provide recommendations for the development of the “GRC Crisis Response Playbook.” The playbook is intended to serve as a guiding framework for the GRC in responding to crises and conflict situations that may affect research systems and international scientific cooperation. The initiative aims to uphold the principles of collaboration, neutrality, and trust among GRC member organizations while ensuring the continuity of global research partnerships during periods of uncertainty.
During the session, representatives from member organizations engaged in discussions on three key topics:
1.Criteria for determining which situations warrant an organizational-level response from the GRC;
2.Principles and approaches that the GRC should uphold during times of crisis in order to maintain neutrality, credibility, and trust among its members; and
3.Measures and governance mechanisms to protect the organization from political pressures and other risks that may affect its core mission of supporting international scientific and research collaboration.
Ms. Sirinporn Deawtrakul emphasized that, in a world increasingly challenged by geopolitical tensions, climate change, public health crises, and economic uncertainty, science, research, and innovation remain essential mechanisms for fostering international cooperation. She noted that science provides a neutral platform for connecting knowledge, building mutual understanding, and promoting shared progress among nations.
She further highlighted NRCT’s commitment to advancing international academic and research collaboration based on mutual trust, equity, and respect for the diverse contexts and priorities of different countries. Such principles are fundamental to strengthening global research partnerships and ensuring that science continues to contribute to addressing complex global challenges.
The insights and recommendations gathered from the consultation will contribute to the development of the GRC Crisis Response Playbook and support the enhancement of the GRC’s governance mechanisms in the years ahead. These efforts will strengthen the organization’s preparedness and resilience in responding to future crises while reaffirming the GRC’s role as a trusted global platform for collaboration among research funding organizations worldwide.
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by: National Research Council of Thailand (NRCT)
