This publication reviews emerging challenges and opportunities in the scientific, economic, social, and political context in which CIMMYT operates. Papers are presented on: demographics; welfare; environment; global economy; politics and policies; projected trends in supply and demand of maize and wheat; intellectual property law and practice; and information technology and information processing. These are discussed in terms of CIMMYT’s present work and future mission. A number of strategic questions have been presented to encourage consideration and discussion on a range of issues, such as the role of agricultural technology in alleviating poverty and the organization, targeting, and focus of CIMMYT’s work.46 pages