Parasitology crossing borders

In veterinary parasitology it is important to further strengthen international collaboration and interactions. On the one hand, there is a strong and promising trend towards growth in large international programmes. However, we, as researchers, should make more serious attempts to influence the targets and structures of these programmes. On the other hand, let us not forget to fully exploit the possibilities for support to even small projects and visiting researchers' arrangements, preferably in a flexible way. The paper emphasizes the obvious need for research capacity building in the least developed countries, and advocates a partnership approach in research for development. The presentation suggests more operative initiatives in international veterinary parasitology. Finally, how language barriers can hamper international contacts and exchange of information is discussed. Ways to possibly avert this are indicated.