I  U  P  A  C

 News & Notices

Changes in Organization and
Management of IUPAC's Scientific Work

- President's message -


To meet the challenges occurring worldwide in chemistry and chemical industry, IUPAC has developed its Strategic Plan to redefine its role as the international organization principally responsible for the promotion of the Chemical Sciences. This Plan provides guidelines for the Union to respond to the globalization of science, to the expansion of the borders of chemistry in a wide range of scientific fields, to the interdisciplinary nature of modern chemistry and to the service of chemistry to society. The Strategic Plan articulates the policy of the Union and provides general guidance to our operating arms, the Divisions and the Standing Committees.

The present structure of the Union precludes the fulfillment of many of its central scientific functions, as reflected in organizational fragmentation and resulting hindrance in the inception and conduct of horizontal interdisciplinary projects. The founders of IUPAC envisioned and made provision for the organization and action of a dynamic Union. In time, the concept of a changing structure was replaced by the current system of long-term Commissions, with little opportunity for Divisions to plan for scientific renewal and growth. Significant past attempts for the restructuring of IUPAC by the creation of the Pool Titular Members and by interdisciplinary unification of Divisional activities have not been effective. IUPAC must build on past successes but must aim toward its future accomplishments, impact and image.

The Bureau has now approved a policy and an operational program based on the conceptual framework that the Union represents and serves the entire world chemistry community. The objective is to improve quality, relevance, international impact and effectiveness of the Union's scientific work. The integrated program constitutes a holistic plan, which rests on major changes in the responsibilities of the Division Presidents and Division Committees, in the election procedures on the Division level, in project evaluation and in the future function of Commissions.

I would like to articulate explicitly and clearly that these changes are aimed at the enhancement of IUPAC's future contributions and impact, and do not in any way question the accomplishments and dedication of IUPAC'S bodies and of the eminent scientists who collectively have contributed, over the decades, to the Union's reputation.

I am delighted that the Bureau has approved the integrated program, some elements of which will begin immediately. To implement the program, we shall consult closely with our National Adhering Organizations, which collectively constitute the ultimate authority of the Union and are in turn accountable for the public and scientific resources used by all IUPAC bodies. The newly approved program will shape IUPAC's role towards the 21st century.

Professor Joshua Jortner
President, IUPAC

 


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