[Role of the French Research Institute for Overseas Development (Institut de Recherche pour le Developpement, IRD)].

IRD is a French public scientific and technological institution, jointly overseen by the Ministries of Research and Overseas Cooperation. It has three main vocations: research, evaluation and training It meets these objectives by conducting scientific programs, centered around the relationship between humans and their environment in poor countries, in order to contribute to sustainable development. IRD has a budget of 218,9 millions euros. It employs 2 235 staff including 830 researchers, 1 021 engineers and technicians, and local personnel. Forty-two percent of IRD staff are employed overseas, many technicians originate from poor countries, and IRD research programs involve researchers from many countries. IRD is engaged in several European and international scientific programs, and plays a coordinating role for research institutions and universities working towards third-world development.