SciDev.Net

New figures on research spending show that the gap between rich and poor countries is closing — but not fast enough.

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

More agricultural research funding and a farmer-centred approach to boosting food production are needed to prevent future food emergencies.

This week's G20 summit in London must ensure that any solution to the global financial crisis also commits to sustainable economic growth.

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

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

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

African ministers have committed themselves to a set of actions to boost health research in their countries. Now they must implement them.

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.

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

China's efforts to build an innovation-based economy require a less hierarchical approach to organising its research system.

At its global summit next week the G8 needs to build on the work of its predecessors, putting science and technology back at the heart of the international aid agenda.

The row over the World Bank president's behaviour reinforces the need to safeguard its lending policies from ideological pressure.

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

The UN's need for advice on how to promote science and use it effectively is stronger than ever. UNESCO might fulfil this role but it needs the determination and human resources to do so.

Building an effective and accountable way to fund science and technology across Africa is a major challenge facing the region’s leaders and scientific communities. You are invited to join the debate.

The forthcoming meeting of heads of the world's industrialised nations must not let self-interest detract from the challenge of global poverty and efforts to soften the impact of globalisation on the developing world.

Next January, the heads of member states of the African Union will meet to discuss science and technology in what will be a unique opportunity to support the continent's scientific renaissance.

Developing countries need to recognise the long-term benefits of creating the capacity to research and develop flu vaccines.