The editorial “Innovation-driven knowledge economies and transformation in the Global South” introduces a special issue of Science and Public Policy dedicated to examining how innovation systems in developing regions can support structural transformation and long-term development. Written by Gabriela Dutrénit, K.J. Joseph, Keun Lee and Sachin Chaturvedi, the article reflects on the evolution of innovation studies and highlights the need to generate new theoretical and empirical perspectives grounded in the realities of the Global South.
The authors argue that although innovation studies have produced important concepts and frameworks for understanding knowledge-based economies, much of this knowledge has historically been developed from the experiences and initial conditions of advanced economies. As a result, there remains a need to better understand the specific challenges faced by countries in the Global South, including weak innovation capabilities, structural inequalities, limited institutional capacities and uneven participation in global knowledge networks.
The editorial emphasises that building innovation-driven knowledge economies requires more than investment in science and technology alone. It depends on strengthening domestic capabilities, fostering learning processes and creating effective interactions among firms, universities, governments, research organisations and society. Innovation is presented as a systemic and socially embedded process shaped by economic, political, institutional and cultural factors.
A key contribution of the article is its discussion of contemporary transformations affecting innovation and development. The authors highlight the importance of addressing interconnected global challenges, including the green transition, digital transformation, social inclusion and changing geopolitical conditions. These transformations create new opportunities for technological upgrading but also risk increasing existing inequalities if countries lack the capabilities required to participate effectively in emerging knowledge economies.
The editorial also reflects on the contributions of the Globelics network to innovation and development research. Over the years, Globelics scholars have expanded the understanding of innovation systems by incorporating perspectives from Africa, Asia and Latin America, emphasising capability building, learning, institutions and the specific conditions of developing economies. The authors argue that continued knowledge production from both the Global North and Global South is essential for developing more inclusive and context-sensitive innovation theories and policies.
By introducing the articles included in the special issue, the editorial highlights research on topics such as national innovation systems, informal sector innovation, green technologies, social innovation and sectoral dynamics. Together, these contributions seek to identify the structural barriers that limit the emergence of innovation-driven knowledge economies in the Global South and provide evidence for more effective policy approaches.
This editorial provides a forward-looking agenda for innovation studies, calling for approaches that move beyond traditional models and recognise the diversity of development pathways. It offers valuable insights for researchers, policymakers and practitioners interested in how science, technology and innovation can contribute to more inclusive, resilient and sustainable transformations.
