Ireland Echoes G20 Presidency’s Focus on Inclusion in Research and Innovation

The Minister at the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, James Lawless, began his intervention at the G20 Research and Innovation Ministerial Meeting expressing thanks to the South African Government for inviting Ireland to participate as a Guest Country at G20 2025.

He acknowledge the spirit of Ubuntu – the philosophy which has informed the South African approach to G20 discussions on Research and Innovation underpinned by the themes of Solidarity, Equality and Sustainability.

Ubuntu emphasises the importance of collective solutions to collective challenges and is most appropriate to a multilateral forum such as this, he said.

"This spirit of Ubuntu is similar to the Irish expression of Meitheal – communities coming together to achieve a common objective and doing so based on unity through cooperative work and mutually reciprocal support."

Inspired by the traditions of Ubuntu and Meitheal, the Minister said he was pleased to engage with all stakeholders on the important work of the G20 Research and Innovation track.

Minister Lawless said while he regrets that the Meeting was unable to reach agreement on a Ministerial Declaration to reflect the Presidency’s ambition, he welcomed the Chair’s Statement which will allow the important work undertaken by the South African Presidency to move forward.

"At a time of great flux and uncertainty, it is particularly important that we work together to maximise the benefits of investment in research and innovation for our common good."

Minister Lawless pointed out that international collaboration on research and innovation is critical in achieving wider economic, societal and environmental policy priorities.

"No where is that more needed and more urgent than in addressing the climate change crisis and accelerating the global response to protect our people and our planet."

The Minister said maintaining the public’s trust in the value of research and knowledge is vital to tackle the complex global challenges and to create a better and fairer future for everyone.

"To maintain trust in science, we need to embed a research culture that reflects our shared values."

From Ireland’s perspective, Minister Lawless said, safeguarding academic and scientific freedom, protecting research integrity and enhancing research security are essential to harness the benefits of international collaboration.

"Ireland very much welcomes and supports the Presidency’s focus on promoting and protecting diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility."

"This is a core priority for Ireland too. We all need to redouble our efforts to create the environment where everyone feels safe, valued, respected and empowered to achieve their full potential."

To improve public understanding of scientific processes and to counteract the scale and reach of misinformation and disinformation, Minister Lawless said Ireland endorses the G20 Recommendations on Science Engagement which set out the priorities to strengthen public engagement in science.

He thanked South Africa's Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Blade Nzimande and acknowledged the work of G20 Research and Innovation track, saying their efforts represents an important statement of intent and purpose for research and innovation stakeholders and sends a clear signal of support for international collaboration and achievement.