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.

Yet more failure to make much progress on climate change in Durban means that developing countries must exert stronger political pressure.

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.

Focussing on the steps needed to eradicate malaria, not just control it, can broaden and stimulate support for health research agendas.

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.

The Horn of Africa drought exposes the continuing gap between our ability to predict disaster and to take effective humanitarian action.

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

Developing countries will benefit from creating more opportunities that allow women to make full use of their scientific capabilities.

A decision to delay, yet again, the destruction of smallpox virus stocks ignores the concerns of the developing world.

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.

Developing countries must be given all the scientific, technical and legal help they need to counter the growing trade in fake medicines.

The UN organisation with responsibility for science should embrace its role in tackling poverty — not keep it at arm's length.

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.