Knowledgeable reforms

Manuela Monteiro on reforms in Knowledge Policy

Dutch Minister for European Affairs and International Cooperation Ben  Knapen wil soon present “The Knowledge Letter” to the House of Commons.  In this letter Knapen will present the reforms in Knowledge Policy of  External Affairs. What will it say? Unclear is the content, but The Broker has organised an open debate on the role of knowledge and research in  addressing global issues. Manuela Monteiro, executive director of Hivos  has expressed her thoughts on the Changing Power of Knowledge.

Monteiro states that more knowledge on the complexities of international development cooperation is indispensable in order to achieve sustainable solutions. Development cooperation cannot be effective without attention to knowledge. However, knowledge alone is not enough; the capacity of people and organisations in applying knowledge is just as important because knowledge leading to change is dependent on what knowledge; by whom; with whom; and with what goal knowledge is developed and applied. And so, Monteiro argues, knowledge is more than the arrangement of platforms and networks. Recent years the government, scientific communities, companies and civil society have hardly invested in knowledge for development. And the result is that within the sector the ability to share, spread, develop and deepen knowledge has been underdeveloped relative to the complexities it is now confronted with.

Co-creation between different professions; using the existing reservoir of knowledge within the sector, both North and South; and better methodological use of knowledge communities are all important steps to take. However, blueprints do not exist. The sector can play a decisive role in helping to find solutions that work but ultimately, local organisations are best equipped to try out which approach works best in their environment.

There is no general answer to the question how knowledge platforms should be designed but suggestions made by Monteiro wich should be considered in this process for a new knowledge policy are:

- Clarity of purpose and context are essential to determine strategy

- The type of knowledge you are looking for, defines who you will invite

- The form and design of the platform depends on your purpose/target group

- Think of the capacity and means that are needed