With only a few weeks to go before our 2026 Annual Conference, we’re excited to be finalising sessions, shaping the agenda and confirming our fantastic line-up of expert speakers from all over the globe. Here’s a little bit of what to expect when you come along on the 29th September;
After arriving at the beautiful Dynamic Earth in Edinburgh (or joining us online), we’ll kick off the conference with the keynote address from Mikaela Gavas, Managing Director of the Center for Global Development.
The first of our sessions will explore the politics of painful choices, highlighting some of the very difficult choices confronting societies around the world and some of the innovative approaches that might lead to positive solutions. Our second session tackles power, accountability and justice. In the context of climate change, conflict and economic pressure we explore how we ensure governments, business and civil society can make more responsible and inclusive choices.
We’re thrilled to host a conversation with the Scottish Government Minister for International Development, Simita Kumar MSP, in her first opportunity to connect with members of SIDA since being appointed earlier in the year.
Following a nourishing networking lunch, we’ll hear from voices on the frontline in a series of impactful lightning presentation along with a spotlight on Palestine.
The first afternoon panel session Scotland in a Changing World: Shaping and Making the Difficult Choice will reflect on and respond to the International Development Minister’s address and conversation, and consider the role that civil society in Scotland can play in shaping decisions made by the Scottish and UK Governments that can drive progress toward global justice and sustainable development.
Our final afternoon session Playing our part: developing active global citizens will consider how we can motivate individuals and communities to play their part, both in calling for change and ‘being the change’ they want to see in the world.
By the end of the afternoon, it’s time to catch up with colleagues and community at our drinks reception, where we’ll hear from members of SIDA Diaspora Group for Global Citizenship, as we close the 2026 Annual Conference!