The Science & Technology Diplomatic Circle Singapore (S&TDC Singapore) is an informal network of diplomats and representatives from embassies, high commissions, and international organizations in Singapore who work in areas related to science, technology, education, and innovation. It has no legal personality and does not constitute a society, association, partnership, or company under the laws of Singapore.

The purpose of the S&TDC is to:

• Organize briefings and meetings with partners in government, academia, and industry

• Promote exchange of information and best practices in science and technology diplomacy

• Strengthen international collaboration and understanding of Singapore’s innovation ecosystem

The S&TDC is non-political, non-commercial, and operates on a voluntary basis. It is guided by the principles of peaceful international cooperation, mutual respect, and non-politicized scientific exchange.

Membership is open to staff from diplomatic missions and international organizations in Singapore who are engaged in science, technology, education, or innovation. Members may join by expressing interest to any of the current Co-Chairs.

Membership may be discontinued voluntarily or upon request by the Co-Chairs if it conflicts with the Circle’s principles or undermines its neutral and collaborative character.

The S&TDC is led by up to a max. of six (6) Co-Chairs at any given time. The Co-Chair role is voluntary with no fixed term limit. All Co-Chairs have equal standing and share responsibilities collectively. Co-Chairs are responsible for:

• Coordinating the activities and visits of the Circle

• Representing the Circle externally

• Maintaining communication channels and the S&TDC website

New Co-Chairs may be admitted by a majority decision of the existing Co-Chairs (tie breaker CH/NO). Co-Chairs may also propose the dismissal of a Co-Chair if necessary, to be decided by majority vote. When a Co-Chair leaves voluntarily, they have the right to propose their own successor.

The S&TDC was initiated by Switzerland and Norway as an extension of the EU Science Counsellors’ Meeting, broadening its scope to include non-EU participants.

Therefore, Switzerland and Norway each hold the only assured Co-Chair representation, with the right to nominate one representative among the Co-Chairs, provided they maintain active participation in the Circle. Apart from this assured representation, their delegates hold no special decision-making powers beyond those of the other Co-Chairs.

The S&TDC operates without membership fees. Any costs arising from activities or administration are borne by the Co-Chairs, based on mutual agreement among them.

Amendments to these Terms of Reference (ToR) may be made by agreement among the majority of the Co-Chairs.

The S&TDC may be dissolved if all Co-Chairs jointly agree that the Circle has fulfilled its purpose or can no longer continue.