Research Partnerships – Debating Development Research

15/05/202615/05/2026

Cooking Knowledge Together: Rethinking Collaboration in Academia

By Luca Sára Bródy

In an era of overlapping crises – from climate breakdown to deepening social inequalities – calls for more “impactful” research are everywhere. Universities promise solutions, funding bodies demand relevance, and scholars are expected to produce knowledge that can address urgent societal challenges. But what if the problem is not only what research produces, but how it is done – and why current ways of doing research so often fail to respond to these crises?

03/03/2026

The Two Blind Spots of the ‘Equitable Partnerships’ Debate

By Eyob Balcha Gebremariam

There might be more than two, but I want to focus on these two blind spots, both in the scholarly debate and in the policy domains of “equitable partnerships”. The first is the dominance of the “development frame”. Unless we question the funding of research partnerships through development assistance, our efforts to achieve equity and justice will remain below par.

14/03/202502/12/2025

Building Inclusive Partnerships: Key Strategies for Successful Funding Applications

By Roseanna Avento, Kelly Brito and Susanne von Itter

In the realm of research and development, fostering inclusive global academic partnerships is crucial for addressing equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) considerations. These partnerships not only enhance the quality and relevance of research but also ensure that diverse perspectives and expertise are integrated into collaborations. Inclusive partnerships help bridge gaps between different regions, disciplines, and communities, promoting a decolonial and more equitable approach to engagement between the Global South and Global North.