Operating Principles Governing the Work of the Panel: Request SEVERE Written Submissions from Member States and Relevant Stakeholders

This submission presents responses from Union of Socio-Cultural Friends of Action for Development to a request for views on operating principles for a science policy panel. It follows a structured questionnaire circulated in the context of preparatory discussions and background materials. The document identifies preferences for inclusivity, including indigenous, geographic and regional balance, as well as transparency, flexibility, coordination without duplication and accessible outputs. It associates integrity, impartiality and gender balance with rules of procedure, while robustness and interdisciplinary balance are linked to guidelines. Cost effectiveness and policy relevance are marked as not relevant. The narrative comments emphasise innovation, holistic approaches and structured observation tools as supporting effective and measurable decision making.