IIASA and OSCE explore collaboration on emerging technologies and security challenges

The meeting brought together experts from both organizations to explore how systems analysis and scientific innovation can support the OSCE’s work across its regions, particularly in addressing complex, cross-border challenges such as disaster risk reduction, energy security, water resilience, and migration.

The visit opened with welcome remarks from IIASA Deputy Director General, Karen Lips, followed by a series of short research presentations by IIASA scientists. Topics included the use of artificial intelligence and social media in disaster risk reduction, satellite-based mapping for agriculture and poverty analysis, systems approaches to water security in Eastern Europe and Central Asia, and new analytical frameworks for energy security. Additional insights focused on migration dynamics and their implications for Europe.

These presentations set the stage for a discussion on strengthening institutional cooperation. Participants explored opportunities to integrate IIASA’s data-driven tools and interdisciplinary research into OSCE initiatives, particularly in regions facing interconnected environmental, economic, and security challenges.

“This meeting highlights the growing need to stay ahead of fast‑moving technological change in an increasingly complex security environment,” said Lips. “Together, IIASA’s analytical capabilities and the OSCE’s regional mandate position us to anticipate new risks, harness innovation, and chart proactive strategies that support resilience, stability, and sustainable development across member states.” 

The OSCE delegation, which included representatives from the Swiss Chairpersonship and the OSCE Secretariat, engaged actively in the dialogue, emphasizing the value of scientific partnerships in informing policy and operational responses.

This exchange marks an important step toward deepening collaboration between IIASA and the OSCE with a shared vision of leveraging science and technology to address pressing global and regional challenges.