A new intergovernmental panel would not be the best way of tackling the multifaceted challenges of sustainable development.

One year after Egypt's revolution, enthusiasm and prospects for science are high — but still need translation into a fully functioning system.

A Ugandan report suggests that policymakers' interest in science and technology is growing. But they need support to turn it into action.

Next year's Rio+20 meeting must put science-based innovation at the heart of the development agenda. But the real battle will be political.

Millennium Science Initiative funding has produced an impressive range of projects in Uganda. The government is wrong to bring it to an end.

The recent riots in the United Kingdom have shown the dark side of social media. But we must avoid heavy restrictions on their use.

Crucial development opportunities may be lost without committed science ministers.

Government attempts to control science communication clash with public demands for accountability, and journalists must resist this trend.

African countries now have a snapshot of their science spending. They should use it to improve policy and address development priorities.

An OECD report outlines good practice for effective international research collaboration — but success can never be guaranteed.

Biosafety is important, but so is ensuring that GM crops benefit the rural poor and that decisions are based on sound science.

Science cannot resolve political conflict. But scientific cooperation can have a key role in maximising post-conflict opportunities.

The discontent behind recent protests in Egypt carries lessons for how both science and journalism are handled across the Arab world.

Last month's Nagoya summit on biodiversity reached some important agreements. The challenge is to ensure that they are fully implemented.

Developing countries need joined-up thinking to promote growth, and donor agencies must find ways to support this.

To retain public trust in a connected world, science academies need to be more open about the way that they operate.

Brazil must ensure its support for science becomes long-term commitment, not one restricted to the mandate of a particular government.

Harmonising 'science for development' funding would make science aid more effective, benefiting both donors and recipients.

Journalists and scientists must guard against policymakers using science to legitimise pre-chosen and politically-motivated policies.

Using science for diplomatic purposes has obvious attractions and several benefits. But there are limits to what it can achieve.