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

Journalists worldwide are invited to apply for the fully funded Global Development Conference 2025, scheduled to take place in Clermont-Ferrand, France, from October 28-31, 2025. This prestigious conference, organized by the Global Development Network (GDN), offers a unique platform for journalists to engage with leading academics, policymakers, and development experts, fostering a deeper understanding of critical global issues.

Selected participants will receive comprehensive sponsorship, covering travel and accommodation expenses, enabling them to attend exclusive sessions centered around this year’s theme: ‘Inclusive Digital Transformation: Social Impacts and Technological Innovations.’ The conference aims to enhance journalists' research communication abilities through training programs and publishing opportunities, amplifying their work for broader audiences and influencing global discussions.

Conference Highlights and Objectives

The Global Development Conference serves as a crucial intersection for diverse stakeholders in the development sector. Participants will benefit from:

Capacity-building workshops designed to improve effective communication on complex development issues. Opportunities to co-design collaborative training programs focused on bridging the gap between research and media. Networking opportunities with researchers, academics, policymakers, and practitioners from around the world. Exposure to innovative approaches and technological advancements shaping the future of global development.

The conference’s focus on ‘Inclusive Digital Transformation’ is particularly timely, given the increasing reliance on digital technologies in various sectors. However, ensuring equitable access and mitigating potential negative social impacts are critical considerations. "Digital transformation presents enormous opportunities for development, but it's crucial that these technologies are deployed in a way that benefits all members of society, particularly marginalized communities," notes Dr. Anya Sharma, a leading researcher in digital inclusion at the Institute for Global Development Studies. "This conference provides a vital forum for journalists to understand these nuances and report on them effectively."

Historical Context and Current Relevance

The Global Development Network (GDN) has a long-standing commitment to supporting research and knowledge sharing in the field of international development. Conferences like this one play a key role in bridging the gap between research and practice, ensuring that evidence-based solutions are effectively communicated to policymakers and the public. The emphasis on journalist training reflects the growing recognition of the media's crucial role in shaping public discourse and influencing policy decisions.

The conference's location in France also provides a relevant backdrop, given France's prominent role in international development initiatives and its commitment to promoting sustainable development goals. Furthermore, the focus on digital transformation aligns with the European Union's broader digital strategy, which aims to foster a competitive and inclusive digital economy.

Eligibility and Application Process

The Global Development Conference 2025 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 be available to travel to France and attend the full conference from October 28 to 30, 2025, in Clermont-Ferrand. They should also demonstrate a strong interest in engaging with researchers, policymakers, and development experts and participating in capacity-building workshops.

To apply, interested journalists must submit an online application form, including:

Personal and contact information Employment details Answers to specific questions related to their experience and interests A CV Two links to published work A short motivation statement A description of their tentative publishing plan

Dr. Ben Carter, a media development specialist at the Centre for Journalistic Excellence, emphasizes the importance of a strong application. "Journalists should highlight their experience covering development issues, demonstrate their commitment to ethical and accurate reporting, and articulate a clear vision for how they will use the knowledge and skills gained at the conference," he advises.

Funding and Logistics

The conference offers a fully funded opportunity, covering:

Registration and participation fees Travel expenses to France Accommodation costs

Key Dates and Deadlines

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

Interested applicants are encouraged to apply well in advance of the deadline to ensure their application is complete and submitted successfully.

Apply Now: [Official Link - To be added by Scholarships Corner]