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As a thematic organisation of the International Science Council (ISC), SCAR supports and adheres to the principles of its parent body, including the freedoms and responsibilities of scientists. The International Science Council promotes the idea that science is a common human endeavour that transcends national boundaries and is to be shared by all people. Scientific progress results from global exchange of ideas, data, materials and understanding of the work of others.

ISC Statute 7 states:

The Principle of Freedom and Responsibility in Science: the free and responsible practice of science is fundamental to scientific advancement and human and environmental well-being. Such practice, in all its aspects, requires freedom of movement, association, expression and communication for scientists, as well as equitable access to data, information, and other resources for research. It requires responsibility at all levels to carry out and communicate scientific work with integrity, respect, fairness, trustworthiness, and transparency, recognising its benefits and possible harms.

In advocating the free and responsible practice of science, the Council promotes equitable opportunities for access to science and its benefits, and opposes discrimination based on such factors as ethnic origin, religion, citizenship, language, political or other opinion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, or age.

 

In recent years, awareness of the importance of diversity and inclusion within the polar research community has grown. A number of networks have been created including: