Fully Funded Global Development Conference 2025 in France Open for Journalists

Applications are now being accepted for the Global Development Conference 2025, a fully funded event taking place in Clermont-Ferrand, France, from October 28 to 31, 2025. This conference offers a unique opportunity for journalists, particularly those from low- and middle-income countries and underrepresented communities, to engage with leading academics, policymakers, and development experts on the crucial theme of "Inclusive Digital Transformation: Social Impacts and Technological Innovations." Selected participants will receive full sponsorship, covering travel and accommodation expenses.

Conference Overview

The Global Development Conference, hosted by the Global Development Network (GDN), aims to enhance the research communication abilities of journalists, enabling them to effectively report on complex development issues. Through training programs, exclusive sessions, and networking opportunities, the conference seeks to bridge the gap between research and media, ensuring that critical development information reaches wider audiences and shapes global discussions.

Benefits for Participating Journalists

Selected journalists will receive a comprehensive package, including:

Full travel grant to cover the cost of traveling to Clermont-Ferrand, France. Accommodation for the duration of the conference. Access to exclusive sessions and workshops focused on research communication. Networking opportunities with researchers, academics, and policymakers from around the world. Opportunity to co-design collaborative training programs in research communication.

Expert Perspective: The Importance of Media in Development

"In today's interconnected world, the role of journalists in disseminating accurate and insightful information about global development challenges is more critical than ever," says Dr. Anya Sharma, a leading researcher in media and development communication at the University of Oxford. "Conferences like the Global Development Conference provide a vital platform for journalists to enhance their skills, connect with experts, and contribute to informed public discourse on issues that impact communities worldwide. The focus on inclusive digital transformation is particularly timely, as we grapple with the opportunities and challenges presented by new technologies in the pursuit of sustainable development goals."

Eligibility Criteria

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

Be a journalist from any country. Priority will be given to women journalists and journalists from low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Be from underserved or underrepresented communities. Be available to travel to France and attend the full conference from October 28 to 31, 2025, in Clermont-Ferrand. 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.

Historical and Current Context of Development Scholarships

Scholarships and fully-funded conference opportunities like this one play a vital role in fostering global development. Historically, these initiatives have been crucial in enabling individuals from developing nations to access education and training opportunities that would otherwise be out of reach. The focus has shifted over time from simply providing access to higher education to also encompassing professional development and capacity-building programs. Today, there is a growing emphasis on supporting individuals who can contribute to sustainable development in their own communities and beyond. These opportunities reflect a broader global commitment to addressing inequalities and promoting inclusive growth.

Application Process

Interested applicants must submit their applications through the online application form. The application requires the following information:

Personal and contact information. Employment details. Answers to questions about your experience and motivations. Curriculum Vitae (CV). Links to two published work samples. A short motivation statement. A description of your tentative publishing plan following the conference.

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

Required Documents

The following documents are required as part of the application process:

CV Passport Published work links Any other relevant supporting material

Second Expert Perspective: Bridging the Gap Between Research and Journalism

"The Global Development Conference addresses a critical need in the field of development," notes Professor David Miller, a specialist in science and technology communication at King's College London. "Often, groundbreaking research remains confined to academic circles, failing to reach the wider public or influence policy decisions. By equipping journalists with the skills and networks to effectively communicate complex research findings, this conference helps to bridge the gap between knowledge creation and societal impact. The collaborative training programs are particularly valuable, as they foster ongoing dialogue and partnerships between researchers and media professionals."

Key Dates and Deadlines

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

Apply Now

Eligible journalists are encouraged to apply for this fully funded opportunity to enhance their skills, expand their network, and contribute to shaping global discussions on inclusive digital transformation.

Official Link