Southern Leadership Locally-led or Northern-led? An examination of research citations in developing countries' policies

Abstract

Public policy in developing countries often grapples with complex challenges, requiring context-relevant insights to foster effective solutions (Ascher 2017). These insights are frequently derived from academic research, which influences the development and implementation of these policies (Hudson, Hunter, and Peckham 2019). While both locally-led (Southern), and external (Northern) research can contribute to policy making, the geographical origin of the research cited in public policy documents and its influence on policy direction remains unclear. This ambiguity forms a critical knowledge gap, especially considering the potential of Southern-led research to offer context-specific insights and contribute towards sustainable local development. This study aims to delve into the geographical origin of research citations in public policy documents of developing countries, providing insights into the relative influence of Southern-led and Northern-led research. ● To determine the proportion of Southern-led and Northern-led research citations in public policy documents. ● To identify factors that may influence the citation of Southern-led research. The study seeks to answer the following research questions: What is the proportion of Northern-led versus Southern-led research cited in the public policies of developing countries? Moreover, what factors influence the tendency to cite Southern-led research in public policy documents? The potential significance of this study is manifold. It promises to add a crucial dimension to our understanding of the role of Southern-led research in public policy-making, contributing towards a more inclusive and context-specific policy-making approach. Shedding light on the factors influencing Southern-led research citation can help policymakers and research institutions strategize to enhance the visibility and impact of such research. Lastly, this study's findings could guide PEP's mission to promote Southern-driven development, strengthening its argument for Southern leadership and assisting in its fundraising efforts. Literature Review Research is

Members

Project leader: Filipe Lage de Sousa

Project researchers: Bernardo Cabral

Journal publication

Authors	Co-Authors	Title of paper	Title of Economic Review	Bibliographic references
Cabral, B., F.Lage de Sousa, and L.Amara Maciel Braga.		<p><a href="https://doi.org/10.1002/jid.70085">North–South Asymmetries in Research Cited in Global South Policy Documents</a></p>	Journal of International Development	Cabral, B., F.Lage de Sousa, and L.Amara Maciel Braga. 2026. “North–South Asymmetries in Research Cited in Global South Policy Documents.” Journal of International Development1–16. https://doi.org/10.1002/jid.70085.

Working Papers

	Title	Modified	Size	Comments	Recommendations
	Southern-Led or Northern-Led? An Examination of Article Citations in the Policies of Countries in the Global South	2025-04-26	1.36MB	0	0

Policy Briefs

No policy briefs.

Final report

	Title	Modified	Size	Comments	Recommendations
	Locally-led or Northern-led? An examination of research citations in developing countries' policies	2024-12-10	1.21MB	0	0

Proposal

	Title	Modified	Size	Comments	Recommendations
	Locally-led or Northern-led? An examination of research citations in developing countries' policies	2023-11-01	50.71kB	0	0