How can research help achieve the 17 Sustainable Development Goals that the international community has set itself? How can we establish appropriate partnerships? What dilemmas do actors face in implementing the goals? What approaches are best suited to alleviate social, environmental and economic needs? How can we measure progress on the 2030 Agenda? 

These were the questions that occupied researchers from Swiss institutions and state and non-state development stakeholders at this year's Research Fair held at the SDC's building in Bern on 9 November. Visitors then had the opportunity to browse the stands presenting 15 research topics, from innovation platforms to rapid response during crises, addressing issues such as water, food security, language and urbanisation.

"To deal with the complex challenges facing the global development agenda we will need to embrace new ways of thinking and working. And the research community has much to contribute in that regard", said SDC director general Manuel Sager. "Connecting science and policy at all levels will be crucial if we want to succeed in achieving the SDGs," he added. "At the national level, too, we will need to devise policy options that address the economic, social and environmental dimensions of sustainable development".