Science without borders: Fostering free knowledge exchange in a politically conflicted world

Scientific meetings, conferences and publications are crucial for advancing knowledge and collaboration, but geopolitical tensions and territorial disputes can hinder the free exchange of ideas, especially when presented maps depict contested borders. These challenges threaten the integrity of scientific discourse and can cause discomfort among researchers. To address this, we recommend guidelines for event organizers, researchers and publishers to minimize geopolitical sensitivities, by omitting borders when unnecessary, relying on natural features like mountain ranges, watersheds or climatic regions, and using the United Nations geoscheme. By fostering open dialogue and adhering to international standards, these measures can help protect scientific independence, promote unbiased communication, and maintain focus on research in politically sensitive contexts. • Geopolitical tensions can hinder scientific exchange. • Contested borders in maps may cause tensions in scientific events. • Event organizers, researchers and publishers should omit political borders when unnecessary. • When political borders are strictly necessary, they should follow international standards.