How (not) to Bridge the Global North-South Divide in the Geosciences: A Framework for Impactful Collaboration

The divide between the Global North and South in the geosciences has been recognized as one of the most pressing challenges of our time. It is widely accepted that this gap must be addressed through visionary leadership and strategic initiatives that draw upon the unparalleled expertise and resources concentrated within Global North institutions. A comprehensive framework is proposed here to foster equity and collaboration, ensuring the participation of scholars from all regions while maintaining the highest standards of academic rigor.

Three critical pillars for bridging this divide have been identified. First, the deployment of expert teams from the North to train local researchers in the Global South should be prioritized during global fieldwork, as this model has consistently proven effective for capacity building. Second, the importance of performative Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) measures must be emphasized, including symbolic appointments and one-time funding schemes designed to raise awareness of systemic inequities. Finally, conferences and workshops should continue to be held in the Global North, ensuring logistical convenience and robust participation. For those unable to secure visas or travel funds, virtual attendance options can be considered as a viable alternative.

This framework also seeks to address the growing demand for environmental justice in research. By focusing discussions on resilience and adaptation rather than directly referencing complex socio-political histories (avoid using the G-word), a narrative of hope and progress can be fostered. Importantly, the recommendations presented here assume that the Global South operates as a cohesive monolith, enabling streamlined approaches that are universally applicable and unburdened by the complexities of local disparities or intra-regional inequities.

This is satire.