SciDev.Net

Will UNESCO's likely new head have the vision to deliver much-needed change in the organisation — especially in its science programmes?

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

A meeting in Berlin brought unequal health research partnerships into the open — but will its framework kick-start progress or gather dust?

Japan is the latest country to give scientific cooperation with developing countries a higher profile in its foreign aid policies.

A new study confirms the valuable role of 'intermediary organisations' in bringing scientific and policy-making communities closer together.

Commodity price rises are no substitute for long-term investment in infrastructure and capacity as a means of securing sustained development.

Governments and donors must find ways to tackle the rise in non-communicable disease, which can mean reassessing health priorities in developing nations.

More efforts are needed to hold the leaders of the G8 nations to commitments made at their annual summit meetings.

Successful efforts to implement effective South–South research collaboration require a better understanding of what works best and why.

An evaluation of Dutch-funded research programmes in developing countries raises questions about the concept of local "ownership".

Bill and Melinda Gates' forays into aid are to be welcomed, but they can only succeed alongside government involvement.

As this year's president of the G8, Japan has an opportunity to boost international support for science and technology in development.

Delay in the implementation of Africa's plan of action for science and technology suggests commitment to act does not yet go deep enough.

Europe's recent bid to attract more skilled workers underlines developing countries' need for greater – not less – investment in their intellectual capital.

Universities in developing countries should ditch the 'ivory tower' legacy of colonialism and enhance their links with the world outside.

Effective adaptation strategies will require reliable scientific data both on the nature of climate change and on its potential impact.

Last month's presidential elections in Nigeria have cast a shadow over the country's efforts to promote science and technology.

The interest in Brazil's ethanol programme should be used to set up fairer partnerships between developing and developed countries.

A growing consensus on the need for more science and technology in development policies must not be allowed to create excessive expectations.

If Africa is to build a sustainable science and technology infrastructure, it needs more than just enthusiastic promises from heads of state.