This paper provides new insights into the kind of expectations justified by systematically expanding the horizon of social science research, and the relevance of this exercise for impact in the policy world. It highlights the value-added of a pluralistic and inclusive approach. Based on our specific research experiences and through a meta-analysis of concluded and current research at the GIGA, we present methodological innovations and their limitations, reflect upon the possibility and reach of new theories and concepts developed from experiences in the Global South, and outline successful as well as less successful strategies in mainstreaming such findings.
