SciDev.Net Weekly Update (10 - 16 December 2012)

Science after the Arab Spring Despite instability in the region, countries in the Middle East and North Africa are placing renewed emphasis on science for development, says Bothina Osama. Editorials Promise for science after the Arab Spring  Governments in the Middle East and North Africa are recognising the links between the uprisings and science for development, says Bothina Osama. EN More EDITORIALS  News Internet access fears over regulation treaty proposals  Nations are divided over whether a proposed change to international data transmission funding would hit economic development in developing world.  EN  UNESCO's science policy schemes face funding crisis  Two initiatives for capacity building in science policy and streamlining global science decision-making have been hit by a lack of funds.  EN | ES  Global drive to 'put maths research to practical use'  An international effort to make education and research in mathematics more relevant to development and global challenges is underway.  EN | ES  Zimbabwe backs nanotechnology as route to new drugs  The government of Zimbabwe has earmarked substantial funding to kick-start a nanotechnology programme focused on TB and HIV/AIDS.  EN  Agricultural research 'key to easing climate-change impacts'  Agricultural research must be moved to the heart of efforts to limit climate change's impacts on those living in dry areas, says a report.  EN Other News Indigenous biodiversity 'crucial' to forest futures  EN | ES  Nepal, Bhutan to closely monitor air pollutants  EN  Pacific fisheries meet 'fails to end tuna overfishing'  EN  Rain may help forecast Rift Valley fever in West Africa  EN  Nigeria 'must close climate change communication gap'  EN  A second Japanese encephalitis strain is circulating in India  EN More NEWS  Opinions Our model shows how physics can boost development  A successful model for making more out of physics for development is ready to roll out to others, writes Dipali Bhatt-Chauhan.  EN  Islam Analysis: Nations must highlight ICT achievements  A UN report's failure to showcase software successes among Islamic nations shows the need for greater self-promotion, argues Athar Osama.  EN More OPINIONS  Features South-East Asia: EU's 'preferred partner' in science  Research collaborations between Europe and South-East Asia are increasing, but critics say regional initiatives must start producing practical outcomes.  EN  Q&A: Roseanne Diab on science academies and climate risk  SciDev.Net talks to ASSAf's Roseanne Diab about the role of science academies in climate change awareness and risk reduction.  EN More FEATURES  How Africa's science academies can help reduce climate risks SciDev.Net talks to ASSAf's Roseanne Diab about the need for stronger unity and efforts from Africa's science academies in climate change risk reduction.