Editorial - 20-12

Canada is a fortunate nation. Endowed with abundant natural resources, a skilled workforce and geographic proximity to the US, our standard of living is among the world's highest. We're also among the most technologically sophisticated on the planet and benefit from a complex yet effective network of collaborative ties with other advanced countries. Our status as one of the G-8 nations is well deserved.

The majority of the world's population is not nearly as fortunate. There's growing recognition that we have an obligation to share our S&T expertise and capacity to help boost the economic and social standards of the nations of the developing world. We're already providing assistance, but is it enough?

A groundbreaking survey from Statistics Canada indicates that, from a government perspective, it's not nearly enough. The survey — commissioned by the Office of the National Science Advisor (ONSA) — shows that just $151.5 million or 2.8% of federal R&D in FY04-05 was devoted to benefiting developing nations (see page 4).

It's a far cry from the 5% target established by the previous government. And to date there's little indication that the issue is on the political radar of the ruling Conservatives. It certainly should be.

Canada stands to benefit from closer collaboration with researchers of all stripes from the developing world. It will help boost trade, improve security and enrich our S&T knowledge to the benefit of all. It's also the right thing to do. The ONSA and others should be supported in their efforts to advance this important agenda. Further federal support is justified on all counts.