Fully Funded Global Development Conference 2025 in France Opens Applications for Journalists

Applications are now being accepted for the Global Development Conference 2025, a fully funded international conference taking place in Clermont-Ferrand, France, from October 28-31, 2025. This conference offers a unique opportunity for journalists worldwide to engage with academics, policymakers, development experts, researchers, and practitioners, focusing on the theme of "Inclusive Digital Transformation: Social Impacts and Technological Innovations." Selected participants will receive comprehensive sponsorship, covering travel and accommodation expenses.

Conference Aims to Enhance Research Communication Skills

The Global Development Conference, organized by the Global Development Network (GDN), is designed to enhance the research communication abilities of journalists. Through training programs and publishing opportunities, the conference aims to make complex research accessible to wider audiences. This year’s theme explores how digital transformation can be inclusive and address its social impacts, while also examining technological innovations that contribute to development goals.

Opportunities for Journalists

The conference provides journalists with the following opportunities:

Attend exclusive sessions on "Inclusive Digital Transformation: Social Impacts and Technological Innovations." Participate in capacity-building workshops to improve communication on critical development issues. Interact with academics, policymakers, and development experts from around the world. Co-design collaborative training programs in research communication. Network with fellow journalists from diverse backgrounds.

Expert Perspective on the Importance of Research Communication

"In an era dominated by information overload, the role of journalists in translating complex research into accessible narratives is more critical than ever," says Dr. Anya Sharma, a media studies professor specializing in development communication. "Conferences like GlobalDev provide a vital platform for journalists to hone their skills, engage with leading researchers, and ultimately contribute to more informed public discourse on global development challenges." Dr. Sharma emphasizes the need for journalists to critically assess the social impacts of digital transformation, particularly in marginalized communities.

Benefits of Attending

Selected participants will receive the following benefits:

No registration or participation fees. Grant for travel to France. Accommodation costs covered. Networking opportunities with researchers, academics, and policymakers worldwide. Opportunity to experience France without financial constraints.

Eligibility Criteria

The conference is open to journalists from all countries, with priority given to:

Women journalists. Journalists from low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Individuals from underserved or underrepresented communities.

Applicants must also:

Be available to travel to France and attend the full conference from October 28-31, 2025. Be interested in engaging with researchers, policymakers, and development experts and participating in capacity-building workshops. Be willing to contribute to collaborative training programs that connect research and media.

Application Process

Interested candidates must apply through the online application form. The application requires:

Personal and contact information. Employment details. Answers to specific questions. CV upload. Two links to published work. A short motivation statement. Description of a tentative publishing plan. Agreement to the terms and conditions.

Required documents include:

CV. Passport. Published work links. Any other relevant supporting material.

Historical Context of Scholarship and Development Journalism

The Global Development Conference builds upon a long history of initiatives aimed at fostering collaboration between researchers and journalists. Historically, access to research findings has been limited for journalists, particularly those in developing countries. This conference seeks to bridge that gap, enabling journalists to better understand and report on complex development issues. The focus on digital transformation also reflects the increasing importance of technology in addressing global challenges, and the need for informed journalism to navigate its impacts.

Deadline and Contact Information

The deadline to apply for the Global Development Conference 2025 is July 27, 2025.

Apply Now: Official Link

Disclaimer: Scholarships Corner shares opportunity information for educational and public benefit. While we strive for accuracy and verify details from official sources, we do not represent or endorse any organizations offering these opportunities. Applicants are encouraged to independently verify all information before applying. Scholarships Corner is not responsible for any loss, damage, or consequences resulting from the use of this information or participation in any listed programs.