The scientific system in the Global South in an emerging multipolar world

The article analyses the changes and trends in the scientific systems of countries and regions in the Global South shifting the focus away from the BRICS countries. The research is underpinned by the critical scholarship on the globalisation, internationalisation and regionalisation of science and higher education. The empirical analysis is positioned within the broader changes in the international system characterised by multipolarity. The article first aims to map and identify trends, processes and discourses characterising science in the Global South. Second, it aims to investigate and analyse challenges, changes and developments in the scientific system of countries and regions in the Global South by focusing on publications and regional/international collaborations. While knowledge-based theories and discourses are informing science development and changes in countries in the Global South in line with global trends, this is not only done to sustain and increase economic competitiveness. Countries are seeking to reposition themselves in a changing international system by increasing their scientific and technological sovereignty through strategic publications and regional collaborations.