ID student event organisers

The Development Co-operation Report 2023 finds that debates are crystalising around the need for a fundamental rethinking of the international aid system. The report proposes ideas for action to overcome roadblocks to existing financial and other commitments; support locally led transformation in partner countries; modernise business models and financial management practices; and rebalance power relations in international decision-making and partnerships.

Against the backdrop of overlapping crises, unprecedented strain on international development budgets, and geopolitical tensions, there is a growing recognition of the imperative for locally led development. Critique of the roots, rationale and operations of the international aid system is resulting in calls for fundamental change, manifesting, for example, in the movements to address colonial legacies and racism in the sector. The report flags the need to address power imbalances that impede local leadership, ownership, and legitimacy. Building upon the report’s insights, the webinar provides a platform for an engaging discussion on the evolving landscape and future trajectory of international development. Join us as we collectively reflect on how locally led development can be a promising pathway forward for development cooperation, examining its implications, challenges, and potential bottlenecks.

Confirmed Speakers:

• Chilande Kuloba-Warria, Founder and Managing Director, Warande Advisory Centre
• Ida Mc Donnell, Senior Policy Analyst and Head of Development Co-operation Research Unit, OECD
• Joëlline Benefice, Policy Analyst, OECD
• Valentina Papú, MSc student discussant
• Alice Robinson, PhD student discussant 
• Jeongyeon Cho, student moderator