Stronger Research–Policy Ties Needed for Resilient South Asia

A regional science-policy-finance dialogue convened 57 policymakers, researchers, and development practitioners to bridge the gap between research and policy, and to drive investment toward sustainable development solutions for South Asia.

Held from 7–8 April 2025, the dialogue was co-organised by the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) through its Himalayan Resilience Enabling Action Programme (HI-REAP) and the International Development Research Centre (IDRC). The event, titled “Prioritising Research for Sustainable Development: Building a Greener, Inclusive, and Resilient South Asia”, focused on aligning regional research priorities with urgent policy needs.

Over two days, participants discussed ways to close research gaps, enhance regional collaboration, and scale up financing for climate resilience and sustainable economic development. A key theme was the need for actionable, people-centric research that translates into impactful policy.

Delivering the keynote address, Krishna Bahadur Raut, Secretary at Nepal’s Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Supplies, emphasized the transformative potential of science-policy integration.
"The knowledge generated here, and its integration into policy and practice, will help us build a strong foundation for sustainable growth," he said.
He urged participants to actively collaborate and share ideas to shape forward-thinking solutions.

Highlighting the importance of inclusivity, Dr Nitya Rao, Professor of Gender and Development at the University of East Anglia, stressed the need to center marginalized voices.
"To build a greener, inclusive, and resilient South Asia, we need to start with people. Those who are often most affected by climate change—individuals, households, and communities—must be part of the conversation and decision-making," she said.

Participants recommended exploring innovative financing models—such as blended finance, climate funds, and public-private partnerships—to diversify funding streams and support critical research initiatives.

Dr. Pema Gyamtsho, Director General of ICIMOD, reinforced the organisation’s commitment to fostering regional dialogue and collaboration.
"ICIMOD’s strength lies in convening experts, policymakers, and thought leaders to share knowledge and co-create solutions. As recent geopolitical developments show, enhanced regional cooperation is more vital than ever," he said.
"We must pool our resources, strengthen partnerships, and work together to tackle the shared challenges we face."

A key takeaway from the dialogue was that research and policy integration must be a co-creative, ongoing process—anchored in partnerships and grounded in evidence. Participants agreed that building a more resilient South Asia will require not only credible research but also meaningful collaboration across sectors and borders.

The dialogue was supported by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) and the UK government’s Climate Action for a Resilient Asia (CARA) initiative.