UNESCO Research and Experimental Development, 1996-2018

The UIS hosts the only global database of cross-nationally comparable indicators on innovation, which involves countries at all income levels. Data collection in this area is relatively new for many countries. So the UIS helps them design their own national surveys by providing training and technical assistance on international methodological frameworks and guidelines, such as the Oslo Manual, which are developed in consultation with partners, such as Eurostat, OECD and RICYT. The UIS also work closely with the African Science, Technology and Innovation Indicators (ASTII) Initiative of the African Union. By working closely with these partners and national statistical offices, the UIS can align and harmonise the surveys and methodological frameworks, such as the Frascati Manual, used at the global, regional and national levels to ensure that resulting data can be compared across countries. This is essential to gain a global perspective on science and technology. The UIS also provide training and methodological resources to help countries develop their own national surveys on R&D and improve the quality and use of their data.