Research News
The DFID Research Strategy in a Changing World
Head of Research Chris Whitty looks at changes since the DFID Research Strategy was launched last year
In the year since the Research Strategy was launched a number of major changes have reinforced the importance of several aspects of the Research Strategy. Work on climate change, a major theme of our strategy, has suggested that this is more severe and maybe quicker in onset even than that assumed at the stage that the Strategy was launched. The economic downturn has increased the importance of understanding growth. In response to this the Growth Centre has already been established, and a Climate Change Centre is at the advanced stage of planning. The need for new technologies and better methods of delivering them has been met with a number of significant developments including the launch of a new anti-malarial drug for children, artemether-lumefantrine.
DFID has recognised the central importance of incorporating the large amount of research coming out both from our own work and from others and is integrating its research with its policy teams to make best use of this. We have been joined by eminent senior research fellows drawn from several Universities across a range of disciplines who are helping DFID systematically to use best evidence wherever it exists. An expansion of our research into new technologies, new methods of delivery, conflict and fragile states, better agriculture and transport will all feed into the mission of DFID to help the poorest.
DFID is now the largest bilateral funder of research in international development, recognising the central importance of research if we are to win the battle against poverty.
DFID intends to be at the forefront in the synthesis, integration and communication of research findings. This aims to help those in developing countries, including policy makers, make the best decisions based on the best contemporary evidence.
This is one of a series of news stories which highlight developments in the DFID Research Strategy since its launch a year ago. See here for more stories on the Strategy.