December, 2011

Acquiring knowledge in a globalizing world

The process of technological innovation has become intricately linked to the globalization of the world economic system. The shift from largely domestic activities to more complex international relationships demands a fresh look at policies that integrate science, technology, and innovation into economic strategies.

Despite the increasing globalization of technology, the involvement of developing countries in producing new technologies and innovations is almost negligible. The production of technological knowledge is concentrated in industrial countries. There are major differences in the generation of knowledge not only between developed and developing countries but also among developing countries. The challenge facing the global community is to create conditions that will enable developing countries to make full use of the globalfund of knowledge to address development challenges.