'The Bamako 2008 Global Ministerial Forum (www.bamako2008.org) provided widespread acceptance to the shift in paradigm from health research which is dominated by medical and epidemiological research to research for health, development and equity. This shift has been in the making from the Alma Ata Conference in 1978 but more specifically in research circles from a meeting in 1990. The shift implies more inter-disciplinary and trans-disciplinary research and a transformation in the research architecture dominated by medical research councils. While recognising the important contributions of advances in medicine, epidemiology and science, a more inclusive approach is advocated with contributions from different knowledge systems. However equally importantly there is a need for greater involvement of civil society in the entire research process.
 
Prior to the Bamako Forum from 17th-19th November 2008 a series of preparatory meetings took place at which the role of civil society in research was raised. COHRED then took this further and with DBL, Denmark and CIAM, the Gambia organised a workshop in Copenhagen in October 2008. The Call for Action emerged at this workshop. A well attended session on this theme was held at the Bamako Forum and printed copies were made available. The Call for Action was also presented to a full house of 1100 participants during the final plenary.
 
This now needs to be taken forward by all those commited to Health for All.  We recognise that research for health is an integral part of health systems and research is essential to track progress in the achievement of health equity goals. It also provides valuable understanding about pathways through which inequalities in access to health determinants operate and how they may be redressed. Participation of communities and of civil society organisations in research for health, development and equity is essential. We look forward to an active, creative and inclusive response to the call for Action.

Input to the Global Ministeral Forum on Research for Health.... Download here