Multi-disciplinary research and future of development

Members of the panel that has been given the challenge of defining the global development agenda after the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) expire in 2015 has been announced by the UN Secretary General, Ban Ki Moon. Its first meeting, scheduled for this September, will mark the start of a process that will run parallel to — but separately from — the process of defining goals, targets and indicators for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) that are likely to succeed the MDGs. How well the two processes will be coordinated remains to be seen, in both cases, targets and recommendations are likely to be shaped around the three dimensions of sustainable development: economic, social and environmental.Translating this triad into meaningful indicators of progress must involve both a solid evidence base and a focus on the needs of poor communities. It will also require scientists to work effectively across disciplines, and journalists to reflect this in their coverage.