Knowledge mobilization for sustainable development: the space for anthropology:

Abstract

Knowledge is increasingly mainstreamed in current efforts towards addressing global challenges and attaining sustainable development, also in line with 2030 Agenda’s emphasis on the importance of mobilizing and sharing knowledge. While there is an overall consensus that different types of knowledge (e.g., scientific, technological and indigenous knowledges) are required to successfully achieve this global endeavour; one can surmise a hierarchy across the types of knowledge mobilized. The paper aims at providing a reflection on which types of knowledge are mobilized and how, also by highlighting the shortage of knowledge mobilization from the anthropological sciences despite the rich knowledge capital and the willingness of the anthropological community to contribute to the attainment of global goals. Taking this context into account, this contribution recommends actions towards the establishment of a space for knowledge mobilization from the anthropological sciences, in order to strengthen the human dimensions in overcoming global challenges (including the COVID-19 Pandemic and its effect) and in attaining sustainable development.