International studies of the Indian Ocean, 1959–1965

Abstract

An oceanographic exploration of much of the Indian Ocean took place during 1959–1965 in the framework of the International Indian Ocean Expedition. Organised and coordinated by international organisations, the Expedition involved 23 countries, many from outside the region. An analysis is made of the role of international organisations, the nature of planning and coordination, the relative importance of fundamental and applied research, the published products of the Expedition, and its benefits to developed and developing countries. Some lessons for the organisation of future cooperative ventures are suggested.