Academic research and development policy in Canada

This paper investigates the interface between Canadian development policy and research on international development in Canadian universities. Using a survey, interviews, and case studies, it asks what opportunities there are for Canadian research to influence Canada's ODA policy; how the ODA policy community works, and how effective the dialogue is between Canadian researchers and policy-makers. It concludes that, for many academics, opportunities are limited, the policy community is weak, and the interaction unsatisfactory. This situation may negatively impact Canadian policy. On the basis of their findings and a review of experience in other countries, the authors make five recommendations.