World Federation of Science Journalists joins Montréal's international organizations community

MONTREAL, Jan. 30, 2014 /CNW Telbec/ - The World Federation of Science Journalists (WFSJ) has joined the ranks of international organizations (IOs) that have set up in Montréal, helping to further enhance the international profile of Québec's metropolis. The WFSJ is a not-for-profit organization representing 46 science and technology journalists' associations from Africa, the Americas, Asia-Pacific, Europe and the Middle East.

The WFSJ is sharing its offices with two member organizations: Agence Science-Presse and the Association des communicateurs scientifiques du Québec (ACS). "Locating in Montréal enables synergy among major players in the scientific communication field. The Montréal region is home to a sizable community of science journalists, and is recognized in North America for its high-quality research centres," noted WFSJ Executive Director Damien Chalaud.

The WFSJ was founded in 2002 to promote links between scientists and the public. The organization builds on the role of science journalists as key players in civil society and democracy. It encourages freedom of expression and the free circulation of scientific and technical information—particularly in the environmental, agricultural, health and medicine sectors.

"The WFSJ plays a key role in society as it provides a forum for its members and the general public. Scientific breakthroughs, challenges and opportunities affect us all. I am pleased to welcome this dynamic team to our city. I am certain that they will find in Montréal an ideal environment in which they can develop their projects," said Dominique Anglade, President and CEO of Montréal International.

"The WFSJ can also count on the support of our experts to grow in the region. We offer IOs a one-stop solution and Montréal is among the few cities in the world that have a program specifically designed to help international organizations," explained Mrs. Anglade. "The arrival of the WFSJ once again emphasizes Montréal's status as an international city that's home to numerous high-profile IOs. Fifteen years ago, we had 30 IOs in Montréal. Today, we have more than 60 and we are determined to grow this number!" she added.

Recognized international status
Montréal is one of the world's eight headquarter cities for UN specialized agencies. After the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), created by the UN in 1944, set up its headquarters here, around 60 other international organizations followed its lead. Montréal is also the top host city in North America for international meetings.

The city offers IOs and their employees a choice urban setting at an extremely affordable cost. Its large pool of qualified workers, its cosmopolitan character, its quality of life and its outstanding environment, as well as its affordable housing and its many quality cultural and sporting infrastructures place Montréal among the best international cities.

For more information about the WFSJ: www.wfsj.org

About Montréal International (www.montrealinternational.com)
Created in 1996, Montréal International (MI) is the result of a private-public partnership. Its mission is to contribute to the economic development of Greater Montréal and enhance its international status. Its mandates include attracting foreign direct investments, international organizations and international strategic workers as well as promoting the competitive and international environment of Greater Montréal. Montréal International—a non-profit organization—is funded by the private sector, the governments of Canada and Québec, the Communauté métropolitaine de Montréal (Montréal Metropolitan Community) and the City of Montréal.

SOURCE: Montréal International

Contact:
Céline Clément
Communications Advisor
Montréal International
Tel.: [phone]
Cell: 514 892-4030
[email protected]

Damien Chalaud
Executive Director
World Federation of Science Journalists
Tel: [phone]
[email protected]