1. Plenary session: Building Block session: Working in Local Languages

2. What is the unique value proposition of this building block / Why do we need this for our CRPs? Working in local languages is fundamental for addressing global development issues in a culturally and linguistically diverse world. Building block:

3. Who is already doing some work around this, how, with what success? CIAT and other CGIAR centers (e.g., CIMMYT, CIP, and IITA) routinely publish articles, publications, and other documents in multiple languages. CGIAR Research Programs like CCAFS and GRiSP are also now coming to grips with this issue. Building block:

4. What are principles/critical success factors/interventions/actions needed to take advantage of this BB? Serious institutional commitment to multilingual communication Appreciating the need for professionalism in translation Sharing language skills across CGIAR Centers and Research Programs Relying on partnerships for knowledge and skill in local languages Building block:

5. What were main discussion points? Multilingual staff can serve as a “bridge” between languages, identifying messages in one that needs to be conveyed in others. Multilingual communication requires clear guidelines in centers and programs but also lots of flexibility and openness Optional Building block:

6. What gaps remain and what will be done about it? Much remains to be done in CGIAR toward building partnerships with organizations that communicate in local languages in rural communities. CGIAR Research Programs must champion such work and link it effectively with research. Optional Building block: