The World Academy of Sciences

The World Academy of Sciences for the advancement of science in developing countries (TWAS) is a merit-based science academy established for developing countries, uniting more than 1,400 scientists in some 100 countries. Its principal aim is to promote scientific capacity and excellence for sustainable development in developing countries. It was formerly known as the Third World Academy of Sciences, named after the "third world" group of non-aligned states. Its headquarters is located on the premises of the International Centre for Theoretical Physics in Trieste, Italy.