The lessons of a recent evaluation of demand-driven research programmes in developing countries have not been incorporated into the ministry’s new research policy.

The Netherlands Ministry of Foreign Affairs is working to create a more knowledge-oriented organizational culture. But at the same time it is losing its internal capacity for strategic thinking, a crucial attribute in an era of globalization, inte...

Knowledge is power. This may be a cliché, but it is increasingly true. It is especially relevant now that the Netherlands Minister for Development Cooperation Bert Koenders is calling for ‘politicization’. That is a good initiative, if it means pa...

Several EU member states have launched an initiative to set up a European Development Report. Such a report could strengthen Europe’s position as a global player. The theme is promising: a globally inclusive society based on fair multilateralism....

There are increasing calls for greater cooperation between scientists from different disciplines. Under certain circumstances such interdisciplinary research can add value. A new publication, Building bridges, offers some advice for sceptics and e...

Is circular migration the ‘silver bullet’ for achieving a ‘triple win’ – for the host countries, the migrants’ countries of origin, and the migrants themselves? Reaching a real win–win–win situation will require more than just positive thinking.

Development professionals, policy makers and scientists in the field of global issues have for a long time been separated by institutional boundaries, cultural barriers and poor communication. But for some time now the trend has been towards integ...