Fully Funded Global Development Conference in France Opens Applications for 2025

Applications are now being accepted for the Global Development Conference 2025, a fully funded international gathering scheduled to take place in Clermont-Ferrand, France, from October 28-31, 2025. This four-day conference, hosted by the Global Development Network (GDN), offers a unique opportunity for journalists worldwide to engage with academics, policymakers, development experts, researchers, and practitioners, fostering collaboration and enhancing research communication skills.

Conference Focus: Inclusive Digital Transformation

This year's conference theme, "Inclusive Digital Transformation: Social Impacts and Technological Innovations," will explore the multifaceted ways in which digital technologies are reshaping societies and economies. Selected participants, particularly journalists, will attend exclusive sessions designed to improve their ability to report on critical development issues effectively.

Fully Funded Opportunity: Travel, Accommodation, and Networking

The Global Development Conference provides comprehensive financial support for selected participants. This includes a grant covering travel expenses to France and accommodation costs during the conference. Attendees will also benefit from networking opportunities with leading figures in research, academia, and policymaking from around the globe.

Enhancing Research Communication for Journalists

The conference aims to enhance the research communication abilities of journalists by providing training programs and publishing opportunities. By making their work accessible to wider audiences, the GlobalDev Conference empowers journalists to play a crucial role in shaping global discussions on development issues.

Expert Perspective: The Importance of Media in Development

"The media plays a vital role in translating complex research findings into accessible information for the public and policymakers," says Dr. Anya Sharma, a leading communication specialist at the World Bank. "Conferences like the Global Development Conference are essential for equipping journalists with the skills and knowledge needed to accurately and effectively report on development challenges and solutions."

Eligibility and Application Details

The conference is open to journalists from all countries. However, priority will be 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. They should also be interested in engaging with researchers, policymakers, and development experts, as well as participating in capacity-building workshops. A willingness to contribute to collaborative training programs connecting research and media is also required.

Application Process

Interested candidates must apply through the online application form, which requires the following:

Personal and contact information Employment details Answers to specific questions on the application form CV upload Two links to published work Short motivation statement Description of a tentative publishing plan

Applicants must also read and agree to the terms and conditions before submitting their application.

Required Documents

CV Passport Published work links Any other relevant supporting material

Historical and Current Context of Development Scholarships

Scholarships and fully funded conferences focused on global development have a rich history, evolving alongside the changing landscape of international aid and cooperation. In the post-World War II era, initiatives like the Fulbright Program aimed to foster mutual understanding through educational exchange. Over time, these programs broadened to encompass a wider range of disciplines and target specific development challenges. Today, conferences like the Global Development Conference reflect a growing emphasis on knowledge sharing, capacity building, and the crucial role of communication in achieving sustainable development goals.

Analytical Viewpoint: The Evolving Role of Scholarships

"Scholarships and fully funded opportunities are no longer solely about providing financial assistance; they are strategic investments in human capital," notes Professor David Lee, an expert in international education at the University of Oxford. "By targeting individuals from underrepresented backgrounds and providing them with access to quality training and networking opportunities, these programs contribute to a more equitable and inclusive global development landscape."

Key Dates and Deadlines

The deadline for applications is July 27, 2025.

Host Organization: Global Development Network (GDN)

The Global Development Network (GDN) is a leading international organization that supports research and knowledge sharing in developing countries. GDN works to build research capacity, promote evidence-based policymaking, and foster collaboration among researchers, policymakers, and practitioners.

Take Advantage of this Opportunity

Don't miss this chance to attend a fully funded conference in France, connect with global leaders, and enhance your skills in research communication. Apply now for the Global Development Conference 2025 and contribute to shaping the future of inclusive digital transformation.

Apply Now: [Official Link]