The ultra-periphery of science: three contrasting views of the Malagasy contribution in terms of domestic research, the diaspora and specific topics

摘要

"Peripheral" countries contribute a very small share of world publication output. This is especially true for African countries, deprived from self-sustaining academic systems by economic and political difficulties. Madagascar is an example of an "ultra-peripheral" country, where the higher-education and research system is largely supported by international funding or direct involvement of foreign partners. But the contribution of Madagascar to knowledge advancement is not limited to it's domestic academic production. Madagascar is also a source of human resources for foreign countries, through an active scientific diaspora, a recurrent concern in emerging countries. Lastly, Madagascar is an exceptional "provider" of topics of research interest. In this paper we have combined these points of view, mediated by three datasets extracted from ISI's Web of Science. In terms of volume of publication, research carried out abroad on specific Malagasy topics is two or three times the total for domestic research. The same is true for the diaspora's activity. For the bulk of expatriated scientists today, the diaspora effect seems irreversible, due to the inability of Madagascar to provide good scientific working conditions, recognition and an internationally competitive standard of living. The three sets show very different thematic focuses. Domestic research, mostly carried out with international collaboration and funding, is very much aligned with the local needs (medicine, plant science) and also long-term interests such as bio-diversity. Foreign research on Madagascar focuses mainly on bio-diversily, with apparently litfle attention paid to topics of short-term national interest. The diaspora's research pattern is akin to its host country's profile, mainly France and French-speaking countries, with no specific involvement in Madagascar-related specialities.