Better policy, better prospects: GO-SPIN strengthens science, technology, and innovation in Lao PDR

Effective science, technology and innovation (STI) policies are crucial for social and economic progress and can lay the foundation for the solutions we need to tackle the most pressing challenges related to sustainable development. But for countries to realize that potential, they need accurate information, adequate indicators of success, as well as the capacity to analyse and monitor policies and instruments.

Many countries fall short of this mark and that is why UNESCO has developed the Global Observatory of Science, Technology and Innovation Policy Instruments (GO-SPIN).

GO-SPIN provides information on STI governing bodies, legal frameworks, policy instruments, as well as a series of long-term indicators of success, using evidence-based policy with design and foresight studies.

In 2016, Lao PDR became the first country in Asia to pilot GO-SPIN. UNESCO and Lao PDR’s Ministry of Science and Technology have applied the GO-SPIN methodology to improve evidence-based STI policies, as well as enhance policy coordination and cooperation among stakeholders, including academia, civil society and private sector partners.  

Late last year, UNESCO’s GO-SPIN team met with high-ranking ministerial officials and other key STI holders to review and discuss the findings of the first draft of the Lao GO-SPIN country profile.

The revised UNESCO GO-SPIN country profile on Lao PDR, reflecting these discussions will be published in March 2018. The report will provide an in-depth analysis of the current trends in research and development in Lao PDR. Results from it will be uploaded to the global GO-SPIN open access platform, which will provide decision-makers, knowledge-brokers, specialists and the general-public with detailed information on STI policies.

Part of the GO-SPIN project in Lao PDR is financially supported by the Swedish International Development and Cooperation Agency (SIDA).