Swiss Academy of Sciences SCNAT
The New Global Connect: Mega-Infrastructure Projects and Their Local Impacts
A factsheet synthesises findings from various Swiss researchers on Mega-Infrastructure Projects (MIP). While on the one hand this factsheet helps to show the long-term impact of MIPs using concrete examples in which Swiss actors are also involved, other examples show under which conditions political participation is possible. In providing these examples, the fact sheet also explores whether and how more participatory methods can be pursued in the future for a socially and environmentally sustainable implementation of MIPs in different contexts. Prof. Dr. Tobias Haller conducted various workshops for the development of the fact sheet. Initial findings were presented at a workshop during the KFPE annual conference in 2022. A factsheet summarizing the insights from this project was published in 2023.
Haller T, Joniak-Lüthi A, Oberlack C, Lundsgaard-Hansen LM, Hurni K, Weissman S (2023) The New Global Connect: Mega-Infrastructure Projects and Their Local Impacts. Swiss Academies Factsheets 18 (1)
Swiss Young Academy SYA
Compassionate Science - Integrating Empathy and Compassion in Research
This report explores how empathy and compassion shape research practices across disciplines. Drawing on a review of existing literature and illustrative examples from early-career researchers, it shows that empathy and compassion are not abstract ideals but practical dimensions of research that can influence study design, relationships, data interpretation, and knowledge translation. Across fields, integrating these dimensions can strengthen trust, deepen understanding, improve collaboration, and enhance ethical reflexivity.
Swiss Academies of Arts and Sciences a+
STEM 2026: Where Switzerland stands today
Twelve years on from the first STEM Youth Barometer, the new 2026 edition reveals that interest in STEM has remained largely stable, stereotypes persist, and women underestimate their own abilities. At the same time, the findings are more nuanced than expected and point to clear areas for improvement.
Swiss Academy of Sciences SCNAT
Beyond the transaction: commodity trade and sustainable development
This factsheet maps the sustainability links of commodity trade, identifies knowledge gaps, and outlines options for commodity hubs, including Switzerland, to reduce economic, environmental and social sustainability risks.