Since the launch of the AAAS Science and Human Rights Coalition in 2009, this growing network of science and engineering associations has collaborated to build bridges between science and technology organizations and the human rights community. The Coalition has created new human rights resources for science and engineering associations, tools for human rights organizations that seek to incorporate science and technology in their work, increased awareness of the opportunities for scientists and engineers to contribute to human rights, and advanced international discussions regarding the significance of the right to enjoy the benefits of scientific progress and its applications, as guaranteed in Article 15 of the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights.
The Coalition’s fifth anniversary provides an opportune moment to celebrate our progress and share the network’s accomplishments. At this time of reflection, it is also fitting to look toward the next five years, identify emerging challenges, and map out the Coalition’s next steps. Thus, to mark the anniversary, this meeting is organized around the connections between science and human rights that guide the Coalition’s working groups.