What is AGORA?
In keeping with ICST Regulations and Governance Model, the Institute is the first professional society that applies principles of direct democracy to the definition of member participation and the entire range of its activities through the AGORA framework.

Developed by EAI, AGORA is an open, democratic platform that embraces the principles of participative membership, objectivity, transparency and quality. It is both a marketplace of ideas and an open forum that enables ICST members to collectively shape and form the Society and its wide spectrum of scientific activities in a direct and active manner. This open way of actively involving the community ensures that content, value and quality are all co-created by the global membership in a bottom-up way.

What can I do on AGORA?
1. Propose a New Activity.
Suggest new ideas to existing conferences and publications, or propose new conferences and publications.

2. Evaluate a Proposed Activity.
Appraise the scientific quality and feasibility of proposals submitted by other ICST members.

3. Participate in an Activity.
Volunteer to participate in activities of the ICST.

How does AGORA work?
When a member submits a new proposal on Agora, it is reviewed by a society member responsible for that activity and validated for scientific and society-related relevance. Upon validation, proposals are placed on Agora and through a double-blind process the proposal becomes available for open voting by community members. This ensures full anonymous and objective voting.  Every member has the right to cast a vote on proposals and the submitter is informed when the proposal will start receiving votes. Ideas receiving sufficient community support are reviewed by the ICST and if appropriate, approved for implementation. Proposals are also eligible to receive full administrative and professional assistance and financial sponsorship from the ICST.

When a participation opportunity is advertised on Agora, it will appear with a detailed description of the specific role. Interested ICST members can apply for the position and will be notified of their outcome two weeks after submissions are closed.

How can I use AGORA?
You can make proposals and evaluate activities in AGORA without registration. These activities can be accessed through the ICST home page using the respective tabs at the bottom of the page.