The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated existing cracks in knowledge ecosystems at all levels. It has also highlighted the importance of the vision of a more equitable knowledge ecosystem that is central to INASP's new strategy. We believe that every voice counts and we must recognise and support the inclusion of diverse voices and experiences in our work, and in knowledge ecosystems. Here we share some of the ways that INASP and partners have been considering and working to redress inequities during 2020.
Cracks in the knowledge system: whose knowledge is valued in a pandemic and beyond?
Many of the inequities which COVID-19 has exposed – and exacerbated – have been with us for a long time. Setting aside very stark disparities in access to health services, and the ability to maintain decent livelihoods, COVID has shown us once again the processes of exclusion that are baked into the ways in which we produce, communicate and use knowledge.
These are questions of infrastructure – who can study and work and be part of the many discussions taking place? – but also of voice – whose ideas and knowledge are valued?
Doing research differently: reshaping research in the time of COVID-19
In the time of pandemic, development research teams and projects must adapt rapidly in order to ensure that their research can continue and delivers impact. COVID-19 has disrupted many traditional research practices. This presents challenges to existing research projects but it also offers opportunities to review and revise research approaches that support more equitable international research collaboration. We convened a session with other like-minded organisations to share ideas and learning.
