The IYA2009 & the UN Millenium Development Goals

IYA2009 is, first and foremost, an activity for everyone around the world. It aims to convey the excitement of personal discovery, the pleasure of sharing fundamental knowledge about the Universe and our place in it. The UN Millennium Development goals form a blueprint agreed by every country and the entire world’s leading development institutions. The inspirational aspects of the International Year of Astronomy embody an invaluable resource for humankind and aim to contribute to four of the UN Millennium Development goals.

Help to achieve universal primary education
IYA2009 intends to add to the quality of primary education by providing access to basic astronomy to teachers and pupils all over the world. The night sky displays its wonders equally above all nations. We just have to provide the guides to understand what we see and discover. Providing equal chances to access knowledge will result in the development of international cooperation in scientific research and relevant applications, and in its broader effect will assist the developing world to match the western world.

Help to eradicate extreme poverty and hunger
An increase in scientific wealth has been shown to be associated with an increase in economic wealth in developing countries, thereby contributing to fight poverty, build capacity and good governance. The IYA2009 programme aims to empower astronomical communities in developing countries through the initiation and stimulation of international collaborations. These small steps can contribute to increasing the scientific, technological and economical wealth in developing countries.

Promote gender equality and empower women
One of the IYA2009 goals is to improve the gender-balanced representation of scientists at all levels and promote greater involvement by underrepresented minorities in scientific and engineering careers. Gender equality is a priority concern of the whole scientific community regardless of its geographic location. The problems and difficulties are different in all regions and continents, so IYA2009 has initiated special programmes to meet local needs.

Develop a global partnership for development
Development relies on several factors, including the use of basic science to develop and use practical applications adequately. IYA2009 will connect networks of professional and amateur astronomers and astrophysicists from all over the world, providing an opportunity to share all the valuable sources of knowledge they have. The aim of the Year is to channel the information obtained to the right development projects and applications.