The Council for International Development (CID) NZ is extending an invitation for all development organisations and practitioners to participate in their highly anticipated annual conference. The conference, scheduled for 20-21 September 2023, will be held in Wellington, New Zealand. This year’s theme, “Deeper Partnerships for Uncertain Futures” highlights the pressing need for stronger collaborations in the face of global challenges and uncertainties.
Having adapted to online platforms in recent years, the CID conference is thrilled to bring participants together in person once again. The event serves as a vital gathering point for a wide range of stakeholders, including CID members, Pacific and global partners, businesses, government entities, academic institutions, and interested members of the public. Supported by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade and various partner sponsors, the conference aims to create an environment conducive to productive networking, fostering new connections, and forging meaningful partnerships.
The overarching context for this year’s conference revolves around the setbacks caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and inflation, which have reversed decades of progress in reducing extreme poverty. The heightened likelihood of famines, growing inequality both within and between nations, and the visible impacts of climate change necessitate urgent action. Against this backdrop, the conference seeks to explore innovative approaches and unconventional partnerships, address power imbalances, and overcome barriers to achieving equal and effective collaborations.
The conference will bring together a diverse array of participants from Aotearoa New Zealand, the Asia-Pacific region, and across the globe. The attendees will include representatives from international NGOs, multilateral organizations, government departments, businesses, social enterprises, independent consultants, academics, and media outlets. Through a series of discussions and sessions, the conference will delve into various topics, including identifying opportunities for new partnerships, strategies for navigating global risks and uncertainties, and ways to enhance collaboration across different sectors and nations. Emeline Siale Ilolahia, the Executive Director of the Pacific Islands Association of Non-Governmental Organizations (PIANGO), and Mark Purcell, the Chief Executive Officer of the Australian Council for International Development (ACFID), will both be present to share their insights and expertise during in-person sessions.
As the conference approaches, the CID will continue to provide updates regarding the program, additional speakers, and session details in the coming weeks. All interested individuals and organizations are encouraged to attend this inclusive and transformative event, which offers a unique opportunity to engage with like-minded professionals, explore innovative solutions, and strengthen collaborations to address the complex challenges of our uncertain futures.
For more details, and to purchase tickets, visit: https://www.cid.org.nz/conference-2023/conference-details/