Research institutes are becoming more conscious of the changing world, and that the need to be responsive. The era when scientists and research institutes could pursue their own scientific agenda, without an awareness of the world around them, is over. This is particularly true of international research institutes that are buffeted by so many different pressures, and that always face financial and programmatic uncertainties. These are realities that must be faced. Yet, particularly because of the increasing interrelatedness of the globe, the challenges for international institutes have never been greater.
Institutions evolve in ways that are difficult to forecast.
I also hope that the work will remain both science and policy oriented. Hence, my views are not surprising.