South Africa's two track approach to science diplomacy
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Date
2016
Authors
Masters, Lesley
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Faculty of Humanities, University of the Free State
Abstract
While debate continues around the usefulness of the concept of Science Diplomacy, in practice
international scientific relations are already facilitating diplomatic engagement, and diplomatic
relations are supporting international scientific engagement. This interaction takes place in the context
of the current global knowledge structure where industrialised or developed states are the “producers”
of knowledge, and developing states the “consumers”. With science, technology and innovation integral
to addressing transnational challenges, this article considers the expanding body of literature, which
is primarily from developed states, highlighting the shortfall in understanding the role of developing
states in science diplomacy. The article then considers developments in South Africa’s science
diplomacy, arguing that Pretoria demonstrates a two-track approach; one that reflects the state’s pursuit
of international recognition as a “producer” and exporter of knowledge at the centre of the global
knowledge structure; and the second, where a shortfall in capacity and resources has increasingly seen
the state as a “consumer” or importer of knowledge in meeting domestic priorities.
Description
Keywords
Diplomacy, Global knowledge structure, South Africa, Foreign policy, Science, Technology and innovation
Citation
Masters, L. (2016). South Africa's two track approach to science diplomacy. Journal for Contemporary History, 41(1), 169-186.