An independent in-depth assessment of ICSU was completed in 1996 and
resulted in several key changes, including the establishment of a new
Committee on Scientific Planning and Review (CSPR).
This assessment encouraged ICSU to evolve from its original function of
principally helping its Members (Unions and National Members) achieve
their own individual objectives, to assuming a more proactive and strategic
role in addressing key international interdisciplinary issues of importance
for science and society.
In response to this assessment, ICSU has recently completed an extensive
prioritorization and evaluation process. Under the aegis of CSPR, a meta-analysis
of national foresight studies was conducted in 2002 and provided the basis
for a consultation with all ICSU members to identify new emerging issues.
Several ad hoc expert groups were also established to carry out strategic
Priority Area Assessments (PAAs) of key areas. A strategic review of the
Science and Society Rights and Responsibilities was initiated by the Executive
Board and several other strategic initiatives, principally in relation
to sustainable development and energy were initiated. The combined outcomes
from all of these activities have been integrated into an overall 6-year
strategic plan which was approved by the 28th ICSU General Assembly in
October 2005.
