The primary objective of ISWA is to provide such contacts and to enable members to assist each other when working in a foreign country--sometimes by arranging accommodations, by advising on the reliability of news sources, or by facilitating contacts abroad--to say nothing of offering hospitality in the intervals between work!

ISWA is of particular value to individuals who do not have a national association of science writers in their home countries. Yet, ISWA is not designed to replace national bodies, or to discourage the linking of them in larger, regional federations. Rather, ISWA hopes to serve as a means for science communicators everywhere to share in the mutual benefits of a professional organization and, perhaps, to serve as a bridge between scientists and communicators on an international scale. Many individual members with adequate advantages belong in order to help less advantaged colleagues when they can.

ISWA works to obtain improved science media facilities everywhere, to get recognition of members on at least the same basis as the local media, and to maintain and improve standards of science writing generally.

ISWA is at the forefront of the World Federation of Science Journalists (see the box below). For journalists who are not in a country or region with an association, this is the place where you get representation within the WFSJ.

To find out more about ISWA benefits and to apply for membership, please go to our membership page.