Press Releases: International Development Research Centre

South Africa’s Trevor Manuel, Minister in the Presidency, in Ottawa 2010-11-23
South Africa’s Trevor Manuel, who went from anti-apartheid activist to the Minister of Finance that made that country’s economy one of the most robust in Africa, will be at Canada’s International Development Research Centre (IDRC) on November 25th. Manuel will be in Ottawa exclusively to speak as part of the Speakers of Renown series, which is being held throughout 2010 to mark IDRC’s 40th anniversary.

Ecohealth in a complex world: Policy’s holy grail? 2010-11-18
From tackling parasites in Nepal, to mercury poisoning in the Amazon, to addressing food insecurity across the globe, Canada is changing how the world thinks about health and the environment. Canadian researchers have been at the forefront of global thinking on ecohealth, which explores how human health can be protected and improved through more sustainable ecosystem management. One of the founders of ecohealth, Dr. David Waltner-Toews, will be at the International Development Research Centre (IDRC) November 24 to discuss how this new scientific discipline is leading to better policies and practices in both Canada and the developing world.

Canada to strengthen HIV/AIDS prevention research in sub-Saharan Africa 2010-11-17
Canada’s Global Health Research Initiative has announced that seven teams will receive grants of up to CA $1.8 million over four years to strengthen research capacity for African-led HIV/AIDS prevention trials. The funding will allow the teams to develop the ability of African researchers and research institutions to carry out randomized controlled trials in sub-Saharan Africa, which remains at the centre of the global HIV/AIDS epidemic.

Experts Available to Speak on the UNDP’s Human Development Report 2010-11-02
On Thursday, November 4, 2010, the United Nations Development Programme will release The Real Wealth of Nations: Pathways to Human Development, the 20th edition of the Human Development Report (HDR). This year’s HDR includes, for the first time, the Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) developed by the Oxford Poverty and Human Development Initiative with funding from Canada’s International Development Research Centre (IDRC).

Africa Works: Making debt relief work for the poor in Nigeria 2010-10-22
In the 21st century, Africa is emerging as a dynamic and innovative continent. This new Africa boasts a reservoir of young talent, a growing market for cutting-edge technologies, and a source of fresh ideas. Amina Ibrahim, Senior Special Assistant to the President of Nigeria on the Millennium Development Goals, will discuss how these trends are advancing human development in a lecture at the International Development Research Centre (IDRC) on October 25.

Blood on the Stone: Greed, Corruption and War in the Global Diamond Trade 2010-10-21
'Smillie is lying through his teeth,’ said former warlord and Liberian President Charles Taylor at his war crimes trial in The Hague, where Canada’s Ian Smillie was the first witness. Smillie will discuss his account of this exchange at the launch his new book, Blood on the Stone: Greed, Corruption and War in the Global Diamond Trade, October 24th, as part of a lecture by Canada’s International Development Research Centre (IDRC) and The Ottawa International Writers Festival. In a conversation with Lee Berthiaume, Managing Editor at Embassy Magazine, Smillie will discuss the cartel, the warlords, the gun runners and the shadowy traders who populated Africa’s bloody diamond wars, and a faltering, decade-long effort to clean up an entire industry.

Helen Clark, Head of UNDP in Ottawa 2010-10-12
Helen Clark, former Prime Minister of New Zealand, head of the United Nation’s Development Programme (UNDP), and named by Forbes as one of the most powerful women in the world, will be at the International Development Research Centre (IDRC) on October 12th. In a conversation with IDRC President David Malone, Clark will discuss the current challenges in international development, ranging from the global economic crisis to climate change.

The Father of India’s Green Revolution in Ottawa 2010-10-01
Professor M S Swaminathan, the father of the Green Revolution that staved off famine in India 40 years ago, will be at the International Development Research Centre (IDRC) on October 4th. In a conversation with Jean Lebel, Director of Agriculture and Environment at IDRC, Professor Swaminathan will discuss how cell phones and the Internet could launch an “evergreen revolution” – one that can feed the world’s population without harming the environment.

Haiti: Building a Nation from History 2010-09-27
After 200 years of independence, Haiti is at a crossroads: how to throw off the shackles of its troubled history to build a strong nation? Respected author and historian Suzy Castor will deliver a lecture at the International Development Research Centre on September 29 in which she will explain why understanding Haiti’s history, from colonialism in the 17th century to the overthrow of dictatorship in 1990, is essential to finding ways of healing the scars of Haitian society.

Statement 2010-09-20
The International Development Research Centre (IDRC) and Mada al-Carmel – Arab Center for Applied Social Research (Mada al-Carmel) would like to announce that they have reached a mutually agreed settlement of all legal disputes between them.

Empires, Nations and Power: Canadian author Margaret MacMillan on the nature of power 2010-09-03
Respected Canadian historian and acclaimed author Margaret MacMillan will deliver a lecture in Ottawa on September 7 in which she will offer a trenchant assessment of how history can shape our view of the world. She will explore the nature of declining and rising powers, shifting relationships and balances within societies, and the force of ideas and ideologies.

Microcredit Pioneer and Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Muhammad Yunus at IDRC 2010-08-30
Microcredit pioneer and Nobel Peace Prize laureate Muhammad Yunus founded the Grameen Bank in Bangladesh more than 25 years ago. Since then, millions of rural poor — mostly women — have received small loans for self-employment projects that have helped lift their families out of poverty. Yunus will be at Canada’s International Development Research Centre (IDRC) in Ottawa September 2 to discuss how microcredit and social business can help in creating a poverty-free world. The Grameen model has been replicated in more than 100 countries, and microlending has become an important tool in the fight against global poverty. IDRC has worked with Yunus and the Grameen Bank on a number of initiatives linking the use of information and communication technologies to poverty reduction in rural Bangladesh.

Inventing India: Religion, race and inequity in India 2010-06-09
Romilla Thapar, widely recognized as India’s foremost historian, will be at Canada’s International Development Research Centre on June 11 to discuss colonial interpretations of India’s past, which have created an oversimplified history that has reinforced divisions of race, religion, and caste. In conversation with IDRC President David M. Malone, Dr. Thapar will relate this narrative to some of India’s most pressing contemporary issues, including increasing wealth disparities, a growing middle class, the Dalit movement for affirmative action, and the rise of terrorism.

Human development in Arab states: Entrenched hurdles and the road ahead 2010-05-31
The Arab Human Development Report 2009 paid special attention to the role of good governance and human security in development. The UN-sponsored study was highly critical of Arab governments for the entrenched political, economic, and social problems that undermine the lives and freedoms of people in the region. Respected development expert Rima Khalaf Hunaidi will deliver a lecture at Canada’s International Development Research Centre on June 3 in which she will analyze the internal and external factors that have hindered the development of Arab states. Khalaf will also argue that political reform is an essential component for development and evaluate the responsibilities of various players in the Arab region as well as the possible role and risk of the involvement of Western countries in promoting reform.

The Economic and Governance Challenges Facing Pakistan 2010-05-27
Pakistan has achieved some economic success despite recurring political instability since the country’s independence in 1947. Yet millions of Pakistanis still live below the poverty line. Joseph Wilson, respected legal expert and a current member of the Competition Commission of Pakistan, will be in Ottawa on June 1 to deliver a lecture at Canada’s International Development Research Centre (IDRC). Wilson will examine factors that continue to inhibit Pakistan’s economic growth, including corruption, unsustainable budget deficits, population growth, decreased foreign direct investment, and the deteriorating security situation.

Economist Paul Collier to Speak on the environment and the 'Bottom Billion' 2010-05-25
Restoring environmental order and eradicating global poverty have become the two defining challenges of our era. In his latest book, The Plundered Planet: Why We Must – and How We Can – Manage Nature for Global Prosperity, renowned British economist Paul Collier confronts the global mismanagement of nature and reveals how natural resource exploitation affects not only the bottom billion, but also the rest of the world. Collier will be in Ottawa May 27 to examine the tension between the restoration of the natural order and the fight against poverty, in particular, how the outcome may affect people in the developing world.

Africa's Green Revolution: Expert to discuss initial results 2010-04-27
Smallholder farmers produce most of Africa’s food. But they often do so with minimal resources and little government support. Equiping these farmers – mostly women – with tools, information, and supportive government policies is a key to feeding the continent and building environmentally sustainable economies. In a public lecture, distinguished agronomist Namanga Ngongi will evaluate the promising initial results of Africa’s “green revolution,” including increased access to supplies, finance, and markets, as well as improved production.

Under Fire : Reporting on Elections in Iraq 2010-04-15
Iraqi journalists continue to face great risk trying to report their stories. According to Journalistic Freedoms Observatory, 188 journalists and media workers have been killed, and 78 kidnapped since March 2003. Hundreds more have been forced into exile, where many continue to report.

Ten reasons why India will not and must not become a superpower 2010-04-06
Some observers suggest that the recent surge in India’s economic growth and the success of Indian unity and democracy signal the country’s imminent emergence as a global superpower. Renowned Indian historian and biographer Ramachandra Guha, however, cautions that this talk of Indian superstardom is premature. He will be at Canada’s International Development Research Centre (IDRC) in Ottawa April 8 to explore India’s future on the world stage, analyz ing the deep fault-lines within Indian society, politics, economics, and culture.

China's Engagement with Africa: Challenges or Opportunities? For whom? 2010-03-19
Chinese foreign aid to Africa has been praised for its efficiency in implementing projects. But the program has been criticized by some in the international aid community, raising questions about the potential for China’s future cooperation with Africa. Renowned academic Dr Xue Lan will be at Canada’s International Development Research Centre (IDRC) in Ottawa March 22 to examine China’s aid to Africa in the broad context of the country’s involvement with the continent. He will analyze the evolution of China’s foreign aid policy and its potential for long-term engagement with Africa.

Canada and the UN Security Council : Implications for Canadian membership 2010-02-17
Canada is in a serious competition for election to the Security Council in October this year. But the Security Council - and the global environment - have changed dramatically in the decade since Canada was last elected. Colin Keating, a leading expert on the UN Security Council, will be in Ottawa on February 19 to deliver a lecture at Canada’s International Development Research Centre (IDRC). He will discuss the challenges Canada faces and the risks and opportunities for elected members.

Peace After War: Building Peace from Cambodia to Afghanistan 2010-02-15
Building ‘sustainable peace’ within societies ravaged by war and violence has been a striking feature of the post-Cold War era. International security and development expert Mats Berdal will be in Ottawa on February 16 to deliver a lecture at Canada’s International Development Research Centre (IDRC). In his presentation, Berdal will draw from his recent book Building Peace After War to explore the record of such interventions, from Cambodia in the early 1990s to ongoing efforts in Afghanistan and the Democratic Republic of Congo. He will look particularly at the nature of the modern peacebuilding environment and will ask searching questions about the role of military force in support of peacebuilding, the vital importance of legitimacy to any intervention, and the degree to which “post-conflict peacebuilding” is likely to remain a growth industry.

AFRICA NEW FRONTIER: Innovation. Technology. Prosperity. 2010-02-01
In the 21st century, Africa is emerging as a dynamic and innovative continent. This new Africa boasts a reservoir of young talent, a growing market for cutting-edge technologies, and a source of fresh ideas. Join Ken Wiwa, special assistant to the President of Nigeria; François Bugingo, President of Reporters Sans Frontières; Neil Turok, Director, Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics; Gebisa Ejeta, recipient of the 2009 World Food Prize, and other renowned African experts on February 4-5 in Ottawa to gain unique insights on the continent’s success stories in business, agriculture, government, education, and health care.

2009 World Food Prize Laureate on Global Food Security: Dr. Gebisa Ejeta inaugurates lecture series 2010-01-27
A global leader in agricultural research, Dr. Gebisa Ejeta will be in Ottawa February 3 to make an impassioned case for revitalizing agricultural research to improve the lives of the one billion people who still suffer chronic hunger. He will argue that farmers in the developing world need new knowledge and methods, so that agriculture can become part of the solution to an increasingly complex set of global challenges, including climate change and water scarcity.

IDRC: The Next Five Years of Innovating for Development 2009-12-22
The Board of Governors of Canada’s International Development Research Centre (IDRC) has approved a new strategic framework for 2010-15 called “Innovating for Development.” The framework builds on a foundation of 40 years of success in helping researchers in developing countries find new ways to overcome the causes of poverty and inequality in their communities. IDRC will focus its activities on five key themes: agriculture and the environment; health and health systems; information and communication technologies; science technology and innovation; and, social and economic policy.

Adaption on the Front Lines of Climate Change 2009-12-09
From Africa’s drought-stricken breadbaskets, to the Arctic ice shelf, to the flooded streets of Asia, Canada’s International Development Research Centre recognizes that climate change threatens communities.

Burma at a Watershed: Rethinking Western Policy Towards Burma 2009-11-26
Western policy towards Burma over the past 20 years has failed. Economic embargoes and severe restrictions on humanitarian and development assistance on one of the world’s poorest, most isolated, and most conflict-ridden countries has done little to foster democratic change.Renowned writer, historian, and former United Nations official Thant Myint-U will be in Ottawa on November 30 to deliver a lecture on the future of Western policy towards Burma at Canada’s International Development Research Centre (IDRC). Dr. Myint-U will argue for a fresh approach to Burma’s problems, one based on a more rigorous understanding of the country’s recent history, the singular nature of the present military dictatorship, and the fast changing regional landscape.

The Civilian in Modern War: International security expert Sir Adam Roberts 2009-11-17
Despite horrific failures in Rwanda and Srebrenica, there have been advances in protection for civilians in armed conflict. Renowned international security expert Sir Adam Roberts will be in Ottawa on November 19 to deliver a lecture at Canada’s International Development Research Centre (IDRC). In his presentation, Sir Roberts will consider the changing roles and perceptions of civilians caught in the crossfire. He will examine the laws of war and the role of the United Nations, and argue that the protection of civilians is likely to remain an important aspect of international attempts to limit the effects of war.

Reappointment to IDRC's Board of Governors 2009-11
The Honourable Lawrence Cannon, Canada’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, announced the reappointment of Denis Desautels for a second term as a member of IDRC’s Board of Governors.

India in the World: In conversation with author Pankaj Mishra 2009-10-28
Essayist, journalist and novelist Pankaj Mishra will be in Ottawa on November 2 as part of The India Lectures organized by Canada’s International Development Research Centre (IDRC). This final instalment of The India Lectures will be a special presentation held in collaboration with The Ottawa International Writers Festival. An award-winning author and frequent contributor to The New York Times, The Guardian, and The New York Review of Books, Mishra’s writing explores topics ranging from globalization to the Dalai Lama to the “Talibanization” of South Asia. Pankaj Mishra will reflect on South Asia in the world.

Reinventing the Wheel: Rebuilding Failed States 2009-10-20
“State-building” has moved from the margins to the mainstream: from bold experiments leading to the creation of Timor-Leste and the Republic of Kosovo, to more challenging experiments in Iraq and Afghanistan. Simon Chesterman, a leading expert on international law, will be in Ottawa on October 21 to deliver a lecture at Canada’s International Development Research Centre (IDRC). In his presentation, Dr Chesterman will consider past and future efforts to rebuild failed and fragile states and emphasize that in each instance, many people assumed — wrongly — that it was the first time anything like this had ever happened, and the last time it ever would happen.

Human Rights, Self-Determination, and Military Intervention 2009-10-13
Michael Doyle, one of the most prominent political scientists in the United States today, will be in Ottawa on October 15 to deliver a lecture at Canada’s International Development Research Centre (IDRC). In his presentation, “Human Rights, Self-Determination, and Military Intervention,” Dr Doyle will address challenges to global security and explore what the rules for international intervention and non-intervention should be, if they are to reflect the modern conscience. This event is being held in collaboration with the Norman Paterson School of International Affairs (NPSIA).

North American launch of Human Development Report 2009 2009-10-01
The International Development Research Centre (IDRC) will host the North American launch of the United Nations Development Programme’s (UNDP) Human Development Report 2009 on Monday, October 5. This year’s report focuses on human mobility and development and includes the Human Development Index, which compares levels of human development in 182 countries.

Building India's 'Knowledge Society' 2009-09-14
Widely credited with ushering in India’s telecommunications revolution, Dr. Sam Pitroda will be in Ottawa on September 16 as part of the India Lectures organized by Canada’s International Development Research Centre (IDRC). In his talk on “Prospects for Higher Education in India,” Dr. Pitroda will discuss challenges faced by the Indian higher education sector, an issue that has come to be viewed in India as a threat to the country’s economic success.

From Global Apartheid to Global Village: Africa and the United Nations 2009-09-04
Dr. Adekeye Adebajo, a leading authority on Africa’s international relations and security issues, will be in Ottawa September 8 to deliver a lecture at Canada’s International Development Research Centre (IDRC). Dr. Adebajo will draw on his latest book, “From Global Apartheid to Global Village: Africa and the United Nations,” and will argue that while the United Nations embodies ideals of justice and equality, the power politics embodied in its structure place Africa at a disadvantage.

Oil Money and Arab Philanthropy: Social Investing in a Global Context 2009-08-31
Barbara Ibrahim, a renowned expert on the Arab World’s philanthropic sector, will be in Ottawa on September 3 to deliver a lecture at the International Development Research Centre (IDRC). In her presentation “Arab Philanthropy and Social Investing in a Global Context,” Dr. Ibrahim will reflect on the Arab world’s rich tradition of philanthropy, and how it has changed over the past decade with the rise in oil revenues and a reduction in state social spending.

Justice and Human Rights in India: The role of the Indian Supreme Court 2009-06-26
Delhi High Court Judge Madan B. Lokur will be in Ottawa on June 29 as part of The India Lectures organized by Canada’s International Development Research Centre (IDRC). Justice Madan Lokur will explore how, since the adoption of the Constitution of India close to 60 years ago, the Parliament and the judiciary have struggled over the nature, extent, and scope of fundamental rights guaranteed to all its citizens. He will describe the ways in which the Supreme Court — through its activism and dynamism — has acted as a check on the arbitrary use of power and how the responsiveness of the judiciary has improved the quality of life in India.

Young India: The Growing Youthfulness of an Ancient Civilization 2009-06-18
India’s Public Service Commissioner Shashi Uban Tripathi will be in Ottawa on June 19 as part of The India Lectures organized by Canada’s International Development Research Centre (IDRC). As part of her presentation, “Young India: the Growing Youthfulness of an Ancient Civilization,” Ms. Tripathi will reflect on the dramatic shift in attention toward young people in modern India. Nearly half of India’s population is under the age of 25, a trend that is expected to persist until 2050. Ms. Tripathi will discuss the impact of this ‘demographic dividend’ of young Indians on different aspects of the country.

Global Downturn and G-20: Does India Matter? 2009-06-09
Renowned Indian economist Dr. Rajiv Kumar will be in Ottawa on June 10 as part of The India Lectures organized by Canada’s International Development Research Centre (IDRC). In his presentation, "Global Downturn and G-20: Does India Matter?” Dr. Kumar will discuss whether the G-20 can emerge as an effective forum for global governance, as well as India’s possible role in the G-20 process or in other fora.

Secretary-General of the Commonwealth Secretariat in Ottawa 2009-06-08
Kamalesh Sharma, Secretary-General of the Commonwealth Secretariat, will be at the International Development Research Centre (IDRC) on June 9 to speak on the challenges affecting developing states. Mr Sharma will speak on “Global transformation and challenge – a Commonwealth perspective.” He will discuss the food, energy, and other challenges faced by developing states and reflect on the debate surrounding the reform of global institutions.

“Power and Responsibility”: Managing Global Insecurity in the Era of Obama 2009-06-03
International security expert Bruce Jones will be in Ottawa on June 5 to deliver a lecture at Canada’s International Development Research Centre on managing global security in the era of US President Barack Obama. A Senior Fellow of the New York University Center on International Cooperation and Senior Fellow at the Brookings Institution, Jones is a recognized authority on transnational threats and international cooperation, global peacekeeping, and fragile state engagements.

India, Global Finance, and the G-20 2009-05-21
Renowned Indian economist Suman K. Bery will speak in Ottawa on May 22 as part of The India Lectures organized by Canada’s International Development Research Centre (IDRC). In his presentation, “India, Global Finance, and the G-20: What lessons, what agenda?” Mr Bery will discuss India’s economic growth and resiliency in the context of the world economy.

Rising India's “Pakistan Problem” 2009-04
Stephen P. Cohen, one of the foremost international authorities on India and Pakistan, will be in Ottawa on April 9. In his talk, “Rising India’s Pakistan Problem”, Dr. Cohen will explore the root causes of India’s rivalry and conflict with Pakistan, and the role of other countries in helping India and Pakistan normalize their relationship.

India's 'Slumdog' Renaissance 2009-03-31
Anand Giridharadas, columnist with the International Herald Tribune, will be in Ottawa on April 2 as part of the India Lectures organized by Canada’s International Development Research Centre (IDRC). In his presentation “The Slumdog Renaissance”, Mr. Giridharadas will reflect on India’s self-transformation drawing his title from the movie “Slumdog Millionaire,” which he will argue has become a metaphor for hope in that country.

The Parliament of India at 60 2009-03-26
Named as an exceptional young leader by the World Economic Forum in 2008, C.V Madhukar will be in Ottawa on March 27 as part of the India Lectures organized by Canada’s International Development Research Centre (IDRC). In his presentation “Indian Parliament @ 60”, C.V. Madhukar will reflect on whether the institution has responded to a changing polity and discuss ways to strengthen the role of Parliament in India’s governance.

The Indian Economy: Looking Ahead 2009-03-16
One of India’s foremost economists, Dr. Isher Ahluwalia, will be in Ottawa on March 18 as part of The India Lectures organized by Canada’s International Development Research Centre (IDRC). She will discuss India’s prospects in light of the current international economic crisis.

Justice, Human Rights, and Impunity in Guatemala 2009-02-26
Three decades of violent conflict in Guatemala formally ended in 1996, but violence continues to be a daily struggle for many Guatemalans. Carlos Castresana, a renowned human rights prosecutor, will be in Ottawa on February 27 to discuss these challenges at a panel organized by Canada’s International Development Research Centre (IDRC) and the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade (DFAIT).

The Freedom Agenda: James Traub on “Why America Must Spread Democracy” 2009-02-20
Distinguished author and journalist James Traub will be in Ottawa February 23 to deliver a lecture at Canada’s International Development Research Centre on the promotion of American democracy in the era of U.S. President Barack Obama. A contributing writer for The New York Times Magazine, Traub will argue that democracy matters – for human rights, for reconciliation among ethnic and religious groups, for political stability and equitable development – but that the United States must exercise caution in its efforts to spread it.

Protecting the Vulnerable in a Changing Climate: Experts to Speak on Climate Change Adaptation 2009-02-11
Action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions dominates headlines in Canada, but experts predict that some impacts of climate change will be unavoidable in this century. Africa, the Arctic and other vulnerable regions face an urgent need to adapt to such effects as rising sea levels, extreme weather events, drought and desertification.

Two French-Language Journalists Win $60 000 Grants 2009-02-06
The International Development Research Centre (IDRC) and the Agence Science-Presse (ASP) are proud to announce the granting of two science journalism awards. The recipients are Marie-Josée Richard, a Québec journalist, and Fatiha Chara, an Algerian journalist.

India Rising and Shining: A False Dawn? 2009-02-03
The founding director of the Balsillie School of International Affairs, Dr. Ramesh Thakur will be in Ottawa on February 5 as part of The India Lectures organized by Canada’s International Development Research Centre (IDRC). An incisive commentator on India’s current affairs and foreign relations, Dr. Thakur writes regularly for Canadian and international newspapers. Dr. Thakur will touch on India’s rise as an economic superpower, glaring poverty and inequality, and the promise of political reform. The theme of his presentation will be: “India Rising and Shinning: Will it Prove a False Dawn?”

Bamako 2008: New solutions to chronic problems at the Global Ministerial Forum on Research for Health 2008-11-17
Opening this morning, the Global Ministerial Forum on Research for Health brings together close to 1000 international participants to address global and national health research challenges. A special panel today, chaired by Canada’s Chief Public Health Officer, will feature research that addresses emerging solutions to chronic conditions.

Canada’s International Development Research Centre (IDRC) will convene eminent African researchers prior to the Global Ministerial Forum on Research for Health in Bamako, Mali, to discuss research and policy interventions crucial to addressing global health challenges. Researchers from several African countries will meet in a series of panels to discuss the impact of governance on public health and maternal and child primary health care, and linking health research to practice.

The India Model: Faith, Politics and Democracy 2008-11-03
One of India’s most eminent political scientists, Dr. Rajeev Bhargava will be in Ottawa on November 4 as part of The India Lectures organized by Canada’s International Development Research Centre (IDRC). Dr. Bhargava will touch on the crossroads between faith, politics and democracy in India and in the West. He will argue that the world can learn from India’s model of secularism as many democracies face religious demands for public recognition of faith.

China and India: Perils, Promises and Prospects 2008-10-29
One of India’s leading experts on China-India relations will be in Ottawa on October 30 as part of the India Lectures organized by Canada’s International Development Research Centre (IDRC). Dr. Alka Acharya will speak on “China and India: Perils, Promises and Prospects." She will discuss the economic and political framework in which the relationship between China and India is evolving. Her far-ranging presentation will also touch on Pakistan, Tibet, China’s presence in South Asia, energy security and environmental concerns.

An African Success Story: Photo Exhibit 2008-10-23
Lucille Teasdale – one of Canada’s first female surgeons – and her Italian husband Piero Corti turned a small dispensary in Gulu, Uganda, into what is known today as one of Africa’s largest non-profit hospital, St. Mary’s Hospital Lacor. Canada’s International Development Research Centre (IDRC) and the Lucille Teasdale & Piero Corti Foundation are proud to present Lacor: An African Success Story, a photo exhibit by Mauro Fermariello that depicts the life-long devotion and commitment of these two incredible doctors and local practitioners in providing much needed medical services to the citizens of Gulu and its surroundings. The exhibit is hosted by Library and Archives Canada.

Precocious India: Economic Transformation and Political Conflict 2008-10-20
One of India’s foremost political analysts will be in Ottawa on October 22 as part of the India Lectures organized by Canada’s International Development Research Centre (IDRC). Dr. Pratap Bhanu Mehta will speak on “Precocious India: Economic Transformation and Political Conflict in Contemporary India.” He will touch on the radical economic, social, and political changes that have revolutionized India in recent decades.

India in the Arc of Turbulence: Noted Journalist Launches New Lecture Series on India 2008-08-25
M.J. Akbar, the renowned Indian journalist, editor, and author will inaugurate The India Lectures under the auspices of Canada’s International Development Research Centre (IDRC) on August 28. Akbar will speak on “India in the Arc of Turbulence from the Nile to the Ganges — Implications for Geo-Politics.” He will touch on the growing power of Iran, the evolution of Pakistan, the situation in Afghanistan, and the role of India.

Shaping Livable Cities 2008-06-13
Urbanization experts and practitioners from across the developing regions of the world will gather in Ottawa June 16-20 to present how they are transforming landfills, slums, and streets to improve the lives of the urban poor.

Adapting to Climate Change: Canada and Africa 2008-06-06
What does an Inuit community on Canada’s Arctic coastline have in common with a rural village in Africa’s breadbasket? Both communities are on the front lines of climate change, depend heavily on natural resources, and have limited ability to adapt rapidly to environmental shocks such as floods, drought, desertification, and disease. Renowned international experts will address these issues and explore how people in Canada and Africa can adapt to the effects of climate extremes during a panel discussion organized by Canada’s International Development Research Centre (IDRC). Steven Guilbeault, co-founder and climate change spokesperson of Équiterre, will moderate the discussion which is part of the Conférence de Montréal.

Experts Tackle the World Food Crisis 2008-05-12
Two international experts on food and agriculture will be in Ottawa at IDRC on May 13 to discuss the factors driving escalating food prices. Leaders of Bioversity International and the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) will address some of the forces behind the crisis including growing demand for biofuels, climate change, the energy crisis, population growth and changing consumption patterns. They will also offer concrete ways to curb rising food prices through innovations from agricultural research. Barry Wilson of the Western Producer will moderate the discussion, organized by Canada’s International Development Research Centre (IDRC).

IDRC Releases Results of Auditor General's Special Examination 2008-04-11
IDRC is pleased to release the findings of the Auditor General’s Special Examination. Results indicate that IDRC has solid systems and practices, and exercises good stewardship of taxpayers’ money.

New President for IDRC
Leading Canadian Diplomat Joins the Centre 2008-02-22
Canada’s International Development Research Centre (IDRC) welcomes the appointment of David M. Malone as its next President, effective July 1, 2008. Mr. Malone is currently Canadian High Commissioner to India and Ambassador to Nepal and Bhutan.

John Githongo to Speak on Struggle for Democracy in Kenya 2008-02-05
One of Africa’s most distinguished advocates for transparency and good governance, John Githongo, will be in Ottawa on Thursday, February 7, to offer unique insights into ordinary Kenyans’ courageous struggle for democracy and the changes needed for a stable future. The lecture is part of IDRC’s special 2007-2008 Speaker Series that is focusing on the challenge of shaping democratic institutions in developing countries. The event will be held at IDRC’s new head office located at 150 Kent Street (at Albert), February 7, from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p. m. in the 8th floor auditorium. French and English simultaneous interpretation will be available.

Emerging People, Emerging Markets, Emerging Technologies: IDRC at the Global Knowledge Forum (GK3) in Kuala Lumpur 2007-12-10
Information and communication technologies (ICTs) are powerful tools for reducing poverty, for combating HIV/AIDS, and for promoting good governance. At the Third Global Knowledge Forum (GK3), Canada’s International Development Research Centre (IDRC) and its research partners will be showcasing some of the innovative ways in which ICTs can foster human development. The GK3 will take place in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, December 11-13, 2007.

Adapting to Climate Change: IDRC at COP 13 in Bali 2007-12-10
Recognizing the serious consequences of climate change for development, the International Development Research Centre (IDRC) is helping developing countries adapt by supporting research and strengthening local institutions so they can better prepare for an uncertain future. IDRC will be on the ground as an observer to the 13th Conference of Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP 13), taking place in Bali, Indonesia, December 3-14, 2007.

New Academic Alliances Between Canada and Developing Countries 2007-12-03
IDRC and the Canada Research Chairs Program are launching an initiative to pair leading researchers from universities in Canada with those in developing countries to collaborate on issues of mutual concern.

From Marked Man to President of Chile: Former President Ricardo Lagos Speaks on Democratic Development in Latin America 2007-11-30
People thought Ricardo Lagos was a marked man after he denounced the Pinochet dictatorship on Chilean national television in 1988. Famously — and courageously — he wagged his finger during the telecast and accused Pinochet of dishonesty and went on to criticize him as a powermonger responsible for “years of torture, murder, and human rights violations.” Chileans still remember the “Lagos finger.” Mr. Lagos went on to play a key role in Chile’s democratic and economic revival, eventually serving as president for from 2000 to 2006.

For Some Journalists, Being Under the Gun has Nothing to do with Deadlines 2007-10-31
Recognizing that building democracies requires a free flow of information and media freedom, the International Development Research Centre (IDRC) is holding a special round table The Fourth Estate: The Media and Democratic Development. This event features a discussion with journalists from the developing world who have been up against apartheid, tyranny, censorship, and corruption. The roundtable is part of a special 2007-08 Speaker Series that is focusing on the challenge of shaping democratic institutions in developing countries. The event will be held at IDRC’s new head office located at 150 Kent Street (at Albert), November 2, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. in the 8th floor auditorium.

Rory Stewart to Speak on Democratic Development in Afghanistan 2007-10-01
As part of the International Development Research Centre (IDRC) Speaker Series, Rory Stewart will be in Ottawa on Wednesday, October 3 to offer unique insights into Afghanistan’s democratic development challenges and opportunities.

The Economics of Opium 2007-06-27
Two leading experts on the narcotics economy of Afghanistan will be in Ottawa on June 28 for a public dialogue aimed at promoting understanding of the challenges posed by the illicit cultivation of poppy and its impact on the reconstruction and development of Afghanistan.

On May 25, Richard Isnor, IDRC's Director of Innovation, Policy and Science, was in Montréal with the Minister of Industry, Maxime Bernier, to officially announce a partnership with the Networks of Centres of Excellence.

IDRC Launches Intellectual Platform for Developing Countries 2007-04-23
The IDRC Digital Library provides full access over the Internet to IDRC’s rich research archive. In addition to making information more freely available, this initiative provides IDRC-funded researchers with a much-needed outlet to publish and showcase their work.

IDRC Receives US$1 Million Gates Foundation Grant to Fight Vector-Borne Diseases 2007-04
IDRC is pleased to announce that it has received a project support grant from the Global Health Program of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. The grant will support ecohealth research on communicable diseases in Latin America and the Caribbean.

The Media and the Rwanda Genocide: Book Launch 2007-02-05
The news media played a crucial role in the 1994 Rwanda genocide: local media fuelled the killings, while the international media either ignored or seriously misconstrued what was happening. This is one of the conclusions of The Media and the Rwanda Genocide, the first book to explore both sides of that media equation. The Canadian launch of the book, which is edited by Allan Thompson and co-published by Canada’s International Development Research Centre, will be held at Carleton University on Wednesday, February 7, in the foyer of the John Tory Building, 1125 Colonel By Drive, Ottawa.

NEW ACADEMIC ALLIANCES BETWEEN CANADA AND DEVELOPING COUNTRIES 2007-01-03
The International Development Research Centre (IDRC) and the Canada Research Chairs Program are launching an initiative to pair leading researchers from universities in Canada with those in developing countries to collaborate on issues of mutual concern. Each team will receive up to $1 million over five years to address key development challenges while mentoring a new generation of scholars and practitioners.