Knowledge Platform on Science, Technology & Innovation Policies for Sustainable Development

The Asia-Pacific Research and Training Network on STI Policy is a platform to share findings of academic research and their policy implications, reflect on current science, technology and innovation (STI) policy issues, and support research to inform STI policies in the Asia-Pacific region.

About ARTNET on STI Policy

The Asia-Pacific Research and Training Network on STI Policy (ARTNET on STI Policy) supports research to design policies that can leverage science, technology and innovation as powerful engines for sustainable development in Asia-Pacific.

Business as usual is not an option if the ambitions of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development are to be met. Innovation, a radically different and disruptive approach, along with significant scientific breakthroughs and technological advancements, are needed to meet the ambitions of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Asia and the Pacific is home to some of the most dynamic, pioneering and innovative countries in the world but also to some of the most technologically deprived.

Science, technology and innovation policy play a critical role in building scientific and technological capabilities and in encouraging innovation. The design of STI policies matters as they influence the diffusion of technologies and their economic, social and environmental impact. Carefully designed interventions enable countries, firms and citizens to take advantage of available technologies. Well-crafted public actions encourage innovations that support productivity growth, respond to social needs and address environmental concerns. For example, the right incentives can encourage firms to invest further in renewable and green technologies, or to develop products that respond to social needs.

However, the challenge is to design relevant localised STI policies that leverage STI for achievement of national development goals, to ensure that STI leaves no one behind and to maximise the opportunities of frontier technology while anticipate its negative effects.

ARTNET on STI Policy supports research to design locally-relevant policies that can leverage science, technology and innovation as powerful engines for sustainable development in Asia-Pacific.

ARTNET on STI Policy is an initiative of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) with support from international donors and national STI policy institutions.

ARTNeT on STI Policy

Policy Focus Areas

  •   Inclusive Technologies & Innovation
    Ensuring STI policies are inclusive and support national development goals and the 2030 Agenda.
  •   Frontier Technologies
    Ensuring technological breakthroughs such as AI, robotics, 3D printing and Internet of Things work for the betterment of the economy, society and the environment.
  •   Social Enterprises & Impact Investment
    Harnessing social enterprises and impact investment to generate further economic and social outcomes and address environmental concerns.
  •   Technology, Trade & Investment
    Leveraging global trade and foreign direct investment to accelerate the spread of innovation and technology.
  •   Technology Transfer
    Enabling the sharing of knowledge and technology across organizations and borders to support sustainable development.
  •   Inclusive Business
    Inclusive Business for more equal and sustainable economies.
  •   STI for SDGs
    Achieving Sustainable Development Goals through Science, Technology and Innovation.

ARTNET on STI Policy provides:

A region-wide network

of researchers, institutions, public officials, policymakers and other stakeholders to share knowledge and ideas.
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Training & workshops

to enhance STI policy capacities in governmental and academic institutions.
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Research & publications

both internal and external STI-related publications, including: books, reports, policy briefs and other resources.
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