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Biotechnology and the Third World: the missing link between research and applications.
1Maryland Biotechnology Institute, College Park 20742.
Genome
|January 1, 1989
Summary
United Nations biotechnology initiatives boost research but fail to connect with industry, hindering economic development in developing nations. Systemic changes are needed for impact.
Area of Science:
- Biotechnology
- International Development
- Science Policy
Background:
- United Nations agencies support biotechnology capabilities in developing countries.
- Previous assessments of UN biotechnology programs are limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of UN biotechnology projects in meeting developing countries' needs.
- To assess the advancement of biotechnology capabilities through UN initiatives.
Main Methods:
- Document analysis of UN agency programs and projects.
- Interviews with agency managers.
- Case studies of projects in Egypt, Thailand, and Venezuela.
Main Results:
- UN assistance primarily targets research capacity, benefiting scientists and institutes.
- A significant gap exists between research institutions and the industrial/marketing sector.
- Biotechnology advancements are not translating into economic development or national problem-solving.
Conclusions:
- UN biotechnology projects currently fail to bridge the research-industry gap.
- Lack of linkage impedes the application of research for economic and societal benefit.
- Systemic changes within the UN system are necessary but challenging to implement for greater impact.