Conservative traditions, rather than religious belief, seem to be the main barrier to modern science in Muslim countries, says David Dickson.

Abdus Salam used his genius to promote science in the developing world, but his legacy remains unfulfilled, says Athar Osama.

In addition to programmes for training abroad, Latin America needs measures and organisations for the promotion of science, writes Carla Almeida.

As the Obama administration begins a second term, USAID's Alex Dehgan describes how the agency will build on its science-for-development agenda.

A successful model for making more out of physics for development is ready to roll out to others, writes Dipali Bhatt-Chauhan.

A six-country assessment shows how women's inclusion in science should be supported, write gender experts Sophia Huyer and Nancy Hafkin.

Pakistan's 'open access instrumentation' initiative can be replicated in other developing countries, opines Atta-ur-Rahman.

Earthquake science was not on trial in Italy — it was about inadequate information and participation in decision-making, says Carina Fearnley.

Poor translations undermine efforts to promote science in Arab countries, says science translator and lecturer Ehab Abdelrahim Ali.

Theatre is a powerful tool to mobilise women farmers in Africa, say agriculture specialists Lindiwe Majele Sibanda and Sithembile Mwamakamba.

Evidence of impact shows that libraries can be local hubs for community development, says communication specialist Jean Fairbairn.

To support science development in Ibero-America, improvements in science teaching at schools ‘is a must’, says Carmelo Polino.

Technology transfer is a priority for a new phase in China–Africa cooperation — but it needs the right direction, says Linda Nordling.

Countries in South-East Asia must learn from successful family planning programmes if living standards are to improve, says Crispin Maslog.

Integrating human rights thinking into policies for combating HIV/AIDS is essential, says Navi Pillay.

Fruitful dialogue in Africa shows the gap between climate scientists and decision makers can be bridged, says adaptation specialist Arame Tall.

Implementation is the primary challenge for renewed family planning efforts, says demography and population specialist John May.

Building a community of innovation scholars will promote locally relevant research and policy, say Bitrina Diyamett and Erika Kraemer-Mbula.

We need to revive the rights-based agenda and realign research priorities for women's health, says Priya Shetty.