Voice of Reason and a Vision for the Future

However, few realize that IANUBIH is, by definition, a working institution with a mission, a program, and specific tasks.It must be emphasized that, since the Age of Enlightenment-particularly in the 17th and 18th centuries, when the first academies in their modern form were founded in England, France, Italy, Germany, Sweden, Russia, and the United States-national academies have had a defined role: to recognize, support, and promote excellence in science and the arts; to foster development, particularly in areas of national importance; to safeguard and affirm cultural and historical heritage while also promoting contemporary achievements; to analyze current events, anticipate future needs and developments; and to offer independent, objective positions, advice, recommendations, and initiatives in the service of society and the state.In short, an academy serves as the forum, conscience, and voice of science and art for a nation-grounded in reliable, scientifically based information and, ideally, in original research.This crucial principle is best summarized by the motto "Nullius in verba" (take nobody's word for it) of the Royal Society in London-the oldest scientific institution, or national academy of sciences in the modern sense-founded by royal charter of King Charles II in 1663.Admittedly, this comparison may seem exaggerated for a small, underdeveloped country with limited scientific tradition and experience-especially under Bosnia and Herzegovina's current political conditions-but we must