Catalytic   Strategies   for   Conscious   Social Transformation: Leadership in Thought.

Edited by Garry Jacobs, Ivo Slaus, Juri Engelbrecht and Alberto Zucconi with contributions by 30 Fellows of WAAS. Cambridge Scholars Publishing 2023, UK

A collection of essays originally published in Cadmus Journal examines a decade of thought and work by 30 WAAS Fellows on global challenges of unprecedented magnitude, intensity, and complexity related to peace, human security, multilateralism, economic theory, financial innovation, democracy, governance, human rights, and law. Two concluding articles trace the evolution of the Academy since its inception and the quest for a conception of reliable knowledge that transcends the limitations of conventional disciplinary silos and integrates the objective perspectives of science with the subjective insights of the arts, humanities, and universal values.

Cadmus Special Issue on Human Security Part 2

Cadmus Journal published a special issue on Human Security in August 2023 in connection with the Human Security for All (HS4A) Campaign being conducted by WAAS and the UN Trust Fund for Human Security. The thought-provoking articles, insightful analysis, and compelling narratives in this issue are intended to deepen our understanding of the challenges and possibilities inherent in securing the well-being of individuals and communities around the world. They cover topics ranging from poverty alleviation and sustainable development to gender equality, peacebuilding, and environmental sustainability. They offer unique perspectives and valuable insights into the complex interplay of forces that shape human security. Click here to access the issue.

Carlos Alvarez Pereira, previously Vice President of the Club of Rome, has now been elected its Secretary General.  He has more than 30 years of experience in research, innovation, entrepreneurship, and business management. 

Mirjana Radovic-Markovic has been invited as visiting professor at Hunan University in China where she holds a series of lectures for Master’s and doctoral students in the field of digital economy.

Ivo Šlaus, honorary President of WAAS, has recently received the highest decoration for special merits in the field of science, research, international relations and exceptional contribution to the reputation of the Republic of Croatia and its international position in the world. For more information, visit https://narodne-novine.nn.hr/clanci/sluzbeni/2023_05_53_891.html

Phoebe Koundouri, WAAS Trustee, was awarded the Academy of Athens Excellence in Science Award 2023 for her contribution to the advancement of the Science of the Marine Environment. This Award, given every four years, constitutes the epitome of academic recognition in Greece.

Professor Junguo Liu (China), a fellow of WAAS, has been honored with the 2023 International Hydrology Prize (Volker Medal) presented by the International Association of Hydrological Sciences (IAHS)/UNESCO/WMO. Prof. Liu received this esteemed award in recognition of his groundbreaking contributions to water resources research, profound engagement in science and policy, and his unwavering commitment to the global hydrology community.

WAAS Fellow Rama Mani and Alexander Schieffer, founders of the “Home for Humanity” movement, aim to create an inclusive future and raise awareness of the power of each individual. The movement is rooted in the interdependence of all human beings and their connections with every form of life on earth. Their work aims to address global imbalances and inspire a new history of humanity that leaves no one behind. They have been interviewed recently by the UN Today, official magazine of international civil servants. More information can be found here.

CMBEBIH’23 & MEDICON’23

The Verlab Institute, along with other partners, organized the International Conference on Medical and Biological Engineering (CMBEBIH’23) and the Mediterranean Conference on Medical and Biological Engineering and Computing (MEDICON’23) in Sarajevo, Bosnia. Held from September 14-16, 2023, the event, themed “Pushing Boundaries towards the Digital and Sustainable,” brought together over 300 participants from 40 countries. Almir Badnjević, WAAS Fellow, was Conference Chair. Promoting knowledge exchange between academia, scientists, and representatives from the public and private sectors, the conference focused on crucial topics such as healthcare digitalization and environmental management, highlighting their significance in driving green transformation. Click here for more info.

After 12 years of operating the experimental ship PORRIMA, Gunter Pauli and his team have harnessed the lessons learned from sailing around the world with solar power, hydrogen from seawater, and intelligent kites. Now, in partnership with AI leaders, they are industrializing a new class of ships that will revolutionize maritime transport by achieving net-zero emissions by 2030.

Heitor Gurgulino de Souza, 13th President of WAAS (2013-19)

The physicist, professor and renowned Brazilian academic, Heitor Gurgulino de Souza, who was known worldwide for his work in the area of education and technology, passed away in November 2023, at the age of 95. He was one of the founders and one of the rectors of the United Nations University Tokyo. At the United Nations, he also held the position of Under-Secretary General and actively participated in several of the Organization’s conferences. Prof. Heitor Gurgulino de Souza was President of the World Academy of Art and Science (2013); President of the World University Consortium and President of the Brazilian Chapter of the Club of Rome. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family, friends, and colleagues.

“After a lifetime of highest achievement, Heitor led the World Academy and World University Consortium through a very important transition period that paved the way for recent achievements and brighter prospects for the future. With gratitude and affection”

       — Garry Jacobs & Alberto Zucconi

Joseph Agassi

Joseph Agassi is known primarily among fellow academics as an exemplary historian and philosopher of science; an ardent critic and disciple of Karl Popper; he taught at Boston University, York University, Toronto, Tel-Aviv University, and the London School of Economics. For over fifty years he studied the rationality of science, metaphysics, and democratic politics. He was also a parachute instructor in the Israeli Defense Force.

Agassi wrote widely on global politics and on the methodology to implement global politics. He has also written extensively on topics such as the history and philosophy of science, as well as the sociology of knowledge. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family, friends, and colleagues.

Martin Ramirez

Martin Ramirez, WAAS Fellow and a scholar and advocate for peace, passed away in May 2023. He held multiple degrees, including a PhD in Medicine and Surgery (Neurosciences) and Philosophy (Education). As Chair of the Center for Conflict Studies at Nebrija University and in leadership roles with prestigious organizations, he dedicated his life to promoting global peace. His commitment to fostering peace extended beyond academia as he assumed leadership roles in prestigious organizations, including Chair of CICA International, and Chair of the Spanish Pugwash Movement.

His research and policy contributions at Harvard University and Stanford University showcased his commitment to international security. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family, friends, and colleagues.

Danilo Miranda

Danilo Miranda, Philosopher and Sociologist, was the regional director of the Social Service of Commerce in the State of São Paulo for nearly 40 years and was involved in various cultural and educational organizations, winning the admiration of the Brazilian artistic class and the title of informal Minister of Culture. He was honored with the Milú Villela Award and was recognized for his contributions to the cultural sector.

At the heart of his philosophy was the belief in the transformative power of culture—a tool not just for entertainment, but for social advancement and the reduction of inequalities. Miranda’s death has been met with condolences and tributes from colleagues and friends.