Independent reporting and analysis on science and power.
The Science Diplomat is an independent, nonpartisan editorial platform of Arete News that reports on science as a diplomatic force.
Overview
The publication offers independent and accurate journalism on the intersection of science, technology, and international affairs, with a focus on how scientific knowledge is absorbed into diplomacy, security, and global governance.
Its reporting examines the institutions, negotiations, and decisions through which science shapes international policy, emphasizing documentation, precision, and long-term consequences rather than commentary or advocacy.
The Science Diplomat Podcast features conversations with leaders and practitioners who illuminate how science and diplomacy interact in practice across global systems.
Science diplomacy, though more recently defined as a field, reflects practices developed over centuries through the interaction of scientific knowledge and governance. Institutions such as CERN and the International Telecommunication Union, and individuals such as Benjamin Franklin and Alexander von Humboldt, illustrate a long history of science as a means of governance and engagement in national, regional and international settings, often without formal designation.
This publication takes the long view, examining how these dynamics evolve over time.
Background
Drawing on the journalism tradition of Arete News, which began publishing in 2018, and founder John Heilprin’s decades of reporting on science and diplomacy, The Science Diplomat launched in 2026 as a dedicated publication.
The founding team includes Amna Habiba, founding podcast director, host and audio production lead, and Bupe Chikumbi, founding science director and co-host.
It is produced by Arete News as an independent editorial platform and is not affiliated with any external organizations, initiatives, or individuals.
Contact Us
Bupe Chikumbi, science director, based in Zambia and Europe: bupe.chikumbi@thesciencediplomat.com
Amna Habiba, founding podcast director, based in Canada: amna.habiba@thesciencediplomat.com
John Heilprin, founding editor, based in Switzerland and the U.S.: john.heilprin@thesciencediplomat.com
Republishing & Permissions
The Science Diplomat welcomes responsible sharing of its reporting.
Excerpts (up to 500 words) may be republished without prior approval, provided they include:
Clear credit to The Science Diplomat
The author’s name
A direct link to the original article
Excerpts may not be edited in a way that alters meaning or context.
Commercial reuse requires prior written approval.
Full republication of articles, transcripts, or podcast content is permitted with written approval. Republishing partners must:
Credit The Science Diplomat as the original publisher
Include a prominent link to the original
Reproduce the content accurately and without substantive modification
Audio episodes may be embedded where technically feasible.
For permissions inquiries, please contact: sciencediplomat1@gmail.com
