SciDev.Net

Science academies in the developing world must engage with the real world if they want to influence policy.

The media can help in the global fight against disease, both as a watchdog for poor practices, and a champion for successful research.

Getting science into policymaking is challenging — but a recent workshop for African parliamentary researchers suggested new ways forward.

The World Wide Web's inventor wants to make websites more trustworthy. This should be done by encouraging good practice, not imposing strict rules.

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

The Myanmar cyclone and Chinese earthquake highlight the need for effective dissemination of information, both before and after a disaster.

The simple communication of key scientific information to the public needs to be improved if sustainable development is to be a realistic goal.

With the death of Arthur C. Clarke, science and rational thought have lost one of their leading promoters.

Last week's award of the Nobel peace prize signals the coming of age of the public communication of science.

The success of a recent SciDev.Net meeting on science journalism in Bolivia reflects growing recognition for the field in Latin America.

Almost unnoticed, Nepal is developing simple and cheap technologies that make the best of local resources and don't damage the environment.

China needs to put its faith in its people, regional government and media if it wants to achieve government transparency.

Improving scientific literacy in developing countries' parliaments would boost sustainable development.

Building public support for genetically modified crops in sub-Saharan Africa means developing a homegrown solution to the region's own needs.

All members of the media must work together to ensure sustainable development is given the attention it deserves.

The work of science journalists needs greater recognition as an essential precondition for transparent, responsive and accountable government.

Journalists have a key role to play in informing the public about tuberculosis and bringing key issues to the attention of policymakers.

The media must be involved in African preparations for a possible bird flu outbreak.

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

Five years after its launch, SciDev.Net is proud of its achievements. But it is also aware of the challenges that lie ahead.