Cuba-U.S. scientific collaboration: Beyond the embargo

Area of Science:

• International scientific collaboration
• Biotechnology, Meteorology, and Public Health research
• Science diplomacy

Background:

• Cuba and the U.S. possess the oldest Academies of Sciences outside Europe, with a shared history of scientific cooperation since the 1800s.
• Geographical proximity and aligned research interests in key areas like Biotechnology, Meteorology, and Public Health foster collaboration.
• The U.S. embargo, established in 1961, presents significant barriers to scientific exchange between the two nations.

Observation:

• Bibliometric analysis of joint publications (1980-2020) in Web of Science and Scopus reveals sustained growth in Cuba-U.S. scientific collaboration.
• A 1980 agreement between the Smithsonian Institution and Cuba's Academy of Sciences notably boosted collaborative efforts.
• President Obama's 2015 policy shift towards normalizing relations significantly enhanced joint scientific output.

Findings:

• Cuba-U.S. scientific collaboration has shown consistent growth over four decades.
• Specific policy changes and agreements have demonstrably increased joint publications and research partnerships.
• By 2020, Cuba had established scientific links with 80% of global countries, indicating expanded international reach.

Implications:

• Scientific collaboration can serve as an effective channel for diplomacy, transforming adversaries into partners.
• The resilience of this scientific collaboration system warrants examination amidst potential future political restrictions.
• Understanding the impact of U.S. policy on scientific institutions is crucial for future international research endeavors.