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 unique opportunity, hosted by the Global Development Network (GDN), is geared toward journalists worldwide, particularly those from low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), women journalists, and individuals from underserved communities.

Selected participants will receive comprehensive sponsorship to attend the conference, covering travel and accommodation expenses. The conference theme for 2025 is ‘Inclusive Digital Transformation: Social Impacts and Technological Innovations,’ and the event promises exclusive sessions tailored for journalists, aimed at enhancing their research communication skills and facilitating impactful reporting on critical development issues.

Conference Highlights and Benefits

The Global Development Conference aims to bridge the gap between research and media, empowering journalists to effectively communicate complex development topics to wider audiences. Participants will benefit from:

Fully funded travel and accommodation in Clermont-Ferrand, France. Networking opportunities with academics, policymakers, development experts, researchers, and practitioners from around the globe. Capacity-building workshops focused on communicating development issues effectively. Opportunities to co-design collaborative training programs in research communication. Exposure to cutting-edge research and innovative approaches to global development challenges.

Expert Perspectives on the Importance of Research Communication

Dr. Anya Sharma, a leading expert in science communication at the University of Oxford, emphasizes the critical role of journalists in translating research into accessible narratives. "In an era of information overload, the ability of journalists to accurately and engagingly communicate research findings is paramount. Conferences like the Global Development Conference play a crucial role in equipping journalists with the skills and networks necessary to inform public discourse and influence policy decisions effectively," she states.

Furthermore, Professor David Lee, a specialist in development economics at Columbia University, highlights the significance of inclusive digital transformation. "The conference's focus on inclusive digital transformation is timely and essential. Digital technologies offer immense potential for accelerating development, but it is crucial to ensure that these technologies benefit all segments of society, particularly marginalized communities. Journalists have a vital role in scrutinizing the social impacts and promoting equitable access to technological innovations," he notes.

Historical Context and Current Relevance of Development Scholarships

Scholarship programs supporting journalists and development professionals have a long history, evolving significantly since the post-World War II era. Initially focused on rebuilding war-torn nations, these programs have expanded to address a wider range of global challenges, including poverty reduction, climate change, and now, digital inclusion. The Global Development Conference scholarship aligns with this trajectory, recognizing the pivotal role of informed media in shaping development agendas and holding stakeholders accountable.

In the current landscape, where misinformation and disinformation pose significant threats to development efforts, supporting journalists through initiatives like the Global Development Conference is more critical than ever. By fostering collaboration between researchers and media professionals, the conference aims to strengthen evidence-based reporting and promote informed public dialogue on pressing global issues.

Eligibility Criteria and Application Process

To be eligible for the Global Development Conference 2025, applicants must:

Be a journalist from any country. Priority will be given to women journalists, journalists from LMICs, and individuals from underserved communities. Be available to travel to France and attend the full conference from October 28-31, 2025, in Clermont-Ferrand. Demonstrate an interest in engaging with researchers, policymakers, and development experts. Be willing to contribute to collaborative training programs that connect research and media.

The application process involves submitting an online application form, including personal and contact information, employment details, a CV, links to published work (two examples required), a short motivation statement, and a tentative publishing plan. Applicants must also agree to the terms and conditions before submitting their application.

Required Documents:

CV Passport Published work links Any other relevant supporting material

Application Deadline

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

Interested applicants are encouraged to apply through the official application portal. This conference presents a valuable opportunity for journalists to enhance their skills, expand their networks, and contribute to shaping global discussions on inclusive digital transformation and sustainable development.