Call for Expression of Interest: Invitation to join the UNOSSC South-South Global Thinkers Network

March 11, 2025

Introduction:

To leverage the potential of South-South and triangular cooperation and better integrate this modality into policies and programmes, Member States need access to relevant knowledge solutions derived from robust research. “Knowledge solutions” refers to actionable insights, good practices, strategies and/or recommendations that are derived from frontier evidence-based research work. These solutions aim to address specific challenges and optimize aspects of policy, governance, programmatic and other operational facets of international development cooperation.

Research is essential in this context, as it provides the foundation for understanding complex development challenges, such as poverty, inequality, climate change, and health crises, and offers data-driven insights that inform targeted interventions. By distilling research findings into practical, implementable steps, policymakers can make more informed decisions, strengthen institutional capacities, and foster knowledge-sharing among countries in the Global South. Knowledge solutions, therefore, should extend to high-quality, evidence-based policy advice across the national priorities and sectors of Member States, strengthen their institutional capacity, and expand knowledge partnerships for testing new ways of thinking about critical development issues.

Call for Submission:

The United Nations Office for South-South Cooperation (UNOSSC) invites think tanks, research institutions, do-tanks, and academic organizations to join the South-South Global Thinkers Network. This initiative fosters partnership, knowledge-sharing, and innovative solutions to advance the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through South-South and triangular cooperation.

About the UNOSSC South-South Global Thinkers Initiative

The UNOSSC South-South Global Thinkers initiative is a global Coalition of think tanks on South-South and triangular cooperation where think tank and do-tank networks from both the Global South and the North come together forging a dynamic platform that brings together leading think tanks and research institutions to:

  • Generate cutting-edge research and policy analysis on South-South and triangular cooperation.
  • Promote the exchange of knowledge, expertise, and best practices.
  • Support the development of innovative strategies to address global challenges.
  • Strengthen the role of South-South and triangular cooperation in achieving the SDGs.
  • Inform policy dialogues and agenda-setting on South-South and triangular cooperation.

Why Join?

  • Access a global network of leading think tanks and research institutions.
  • Participate in high-level forums, workshops, and knowledge-sharing events.
  • Contribute to UNOSSC publications, policy briefs, and global reports.
  • Collaborate on joint research initiatives and policy advocacy.
  • Gain visibility as a key contributor to South-South cooperation.

Eligibility:

Applications are invited from think-tanks, do-tanks, academia, Centers of Excellence and other research institutions that:

  1. Demonstrate a strong track record in research, policy analysis, and advocacy related to sustainable development, South-South and triangular cooperation, or related fields.
  2. Specify areas of expertise such as poverty reduction, climate action, gender equality, digital transformation, health, education, or other SDG-related themes.
  3. Are committed to fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing across regions.
  4. Have the capacity to contribute to global/ regional dialogues and policy frameworks on South-South cooperation.

How to Apply:

Submit your Expression of Interest (EOI) form below by xx xx xxxx. For more details, download the detailed EOI here, or contact naveeda.nazir@unossc.org.