Turning Words into Action for Future Generations
The day opened with a constructive round table discussion that brought together scientists, policy makers, societal organizations and politicians. The event explored how to translate the UN Declaration on Future Generations into policy and practice for the benefit of the health and wellbeing of future generations.
The session was led by Huub Dijstelbloem and Tessa Roseboom, and featured contributions from Sophie Howe: the world’s first Future Generations Commissioner (Wales), on the Welsh model of protecting long-term wellbeing, and Sir Peter Gluckman: the president of the International Science Council, who spoke about the role of science in serving society and informing policy.
In three focused discussion rounds, participants examined how to embed the interests of future generations into policymaking, what kinds of scientific evidence and frameworks are needed to support fair, future-oriented health strategies, and how institutions from governments to health foundations can work together to protect human health of current and future generations.
The round table discussion was lively and constructive, and is likely to be the start of an ongoing conversation where policy makers, health foundations and scientists will explore how to work together on a common goal and strategy towards a healthy future for all and contribute to healthy future generations.. As Tessa Roseboom put it: "We must act today as though the lives of all our descendants depend on it—because they do."
AR&D Symposium: Science Serving Society
After an inspiring discussion, everyone gathered for the annual symposium. This year’s theme Shaping Tomorrow’s Health Today reflected a growing recognition that reproductive and developmental research must directly contribute to a sustainable and equitable future.
Tessa Roseboom led a vibrant program that encouraged all researchers to explore how their work contributes to the health of future generations. The symposium not only featured keynote talks from Sophie Howe and Sir Peter Gluckman but also showcased AR&D researchers who investigate in the lab, clinic or the wider society how to contribute to healthy beginnings and hopeful futures. .
The event concluded with a panel discussion including prof.dr. Arne Popma, dr. Karen Kruijthof, and prof.dr. Tessa Roseboom which focused on what we can do today to contribute to a healthy tomorrow. Arne Popma called on all participants to be brave and speak up for those whose voices are unheard. Possibilities to include an empty chair for future generations at our meeting table, or a children’s fire were mentioned as practical ways to take the interests of future generations into account.
A Day of Urgency, Hope, and Commitment
Both events served as a powerful reminder that the challenges we face, such as mental health issues, inequality, and trauma are deeply connected to health and human potential of current and future generations. They also affirmed that through interdisciplinary collaboration, and research into reproduction and development can contribute to building foundations for a healthy future for all. All we have to do is work together and be brave, kind, and curious…!