UNESCO and International Bureau of Weights and Measures reinforce ties to advance metrology

On 15 December 2025, UNESCO and the International Bureau of Weights and Measures (BIPM) signed a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), reinforcing their long-standing cooperation to advance metrology, capacity building in basic sciences, and the role of accurate measurement in sustainable development worldwide.

The Memorandum was signed in Paris by Ms Lidia Brito, Assistant Director-General for Natural Sciences at UNESCO, and Mr Martin Milton, Director of the BIPM. It updates and builds upon the historic agreement concluded in 1949 between UNESCO and the International Committee for Weights and Measures (CIPM), reflecting the Parties’ shared strategic priorities and contemporary global challenges.

Advancing science through accurate measurement

Metrology, the science of measurement, underpins scientific discovery, technological innovation, industrial production, international trade, and environmental protection. Through this renewed partnership, UNESCO and the BIPM reaffirm their shared commitment to raising global awareness of the essential role that accurate and reliable measurements play in improving the quality of life and addressing challenges in areas such as energy, health, climate action, engineering and innovation.

A key focus of the Memorandum is capacity building, particularly in developing countries, with a strong emphasis on Africa, gender equality, youth, and Small Island Developing States (SIDS). The Parties will explore joint activities aimed at strengthening scientific skills, increasing participation in the global metrology system, and promoting the inclusion of women and young people in science and engineering.

From global awareness to coordinated action

The renewed cooperation also builds on UNESCO’s role in promoting global recognition of metrology, including the proclamation of World Metrology Day on 20 May, adopted by UNESCO’s General Conference in 2023. Together, UNESCO and the BIPM will work to enhance the dissemination of knowledge on quality infrastructure and measurement standards, fostering greater understanding of their relevance to sustainable development and everyday life.

To operationalize the Memorandum, the Parties will develop a four-year roadmap aligned with shared strategic objectives, and will hold regular consultations to guide implementation and identify new opportunities for collaboration.

Through this strengthened partnership, UNESCO and the BIPM reaffirm their shared vision of science as a global public good, one that supports innovation, equity and resilience, and helps societies meet the challenges of today and tomorrow.

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