Evaluation of the Abdus Salam International Center for Theoretical Physics (ICTP)

Founded in 1964 by Nobel Laureate Abdus Salam, the Abdus Salam International Centre for Theoretical Physics (ICTP) is a leading research centre based in Trieste, Italy, designed to promotescientific research, international exchange, and capacity-building for scientists across the world. Its focus is mainly on the areas of advanced theoretical physics and mathematics, including their applications in climate, materials, life, and other related sciences. It was initially established under the auspices of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). As the scope of its activities expanded, UNESCO became increasingly involved and eventually took over the administration of the Centre in 1995.

ECOPER conducted the evaluation of the ICTP in order to assess the relevance of its work in theoretical physics and mathematics and related fields, the effectiveness and impact of its capacity-building, research, and advocacy initiatives, the coherence and complementarity of its action with UNESCO’s strategic objectives, the efficiency of its approach, and the sustainability of its activities.