Suva, Fiji – October 25, 2024: The Global Development Network, in collaboration with the Government of Fiji and the University of South Pacific, proudly announces the Global Development Conference 2024 (GDC 2024), scheduled for November 26-28, 2024 in Suva, Fiji. This partnership presents a unique opportunity for climate experts, researchers, policymakers, civil society organisations and students to engage in meaningful discussions on climate resilience in the local context. GDC 2024 will explore how social, economic, and political factors influence the effectiveness of climate resilience strategies.
Fiji ranks among the most climate-vulnerable nations globally and plays a strong and dynamic role in the collective pursuit of climate resilience, interconnected with similar struggles faced by the wider Global South. This makes the conference even more relevant to the country.
"Fiji has emerged as a key leader in advancing climate resilience efforts across the Pacific region, and this promising collaboration between the Global Development Network (GDN) and the Government of Fiji represents an important step towards fostering global synergies aimed at achieving sustainable development. Fiji’s recent inclusion as a member of GDN’s International Assemblyfurther strengthens this cooperation, offering new opportunities for knowledge exchange, capacity-building, and joint action. Together, we hope to amplify our efforts to build a future that is more inclusive, sustainable, and responsive to the needs of vulnerable communities worldwide," shares Jean-Louis Arcand, President of the Global Development Network.
Hon. Biman Prasad, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, Government of Fiji, emphasises the significance of a long-term relationship with GDN and how this could benefit Fiji’s research ecosystem. "Fiji is proud to host GDN's 25th Annual Global Development Conference this year! This event provides a unique platform for us to engage with global experts and thought leaders, allowing us to identify critical policy gaps, develop innovative approaches, and formulate evidence-based strategies tailored to navigate our economies through these uncertain times. Our recent membership in GDN’s International Assembly marks a significant milestone for Fiji. It opens new doors for Fijian policymakers, researchers, academics, and professional organisations to engage in cutting-edge research, participate in GDN’s global research initiatives and collaborate with a worldwide community dedicated to addressing some of the most pressing development challenges. All this with the objective to produce policies that are grounded in evidence and contextualised to the specific needs of our region."
Professor Pal Ahluwalia, Vice-Chancellor and President, University of the South Pacific (USP) states, "We are honoured to partner with the Fiji Government and the Global Development Network in cohosting the Global Development Conference 2024 at our Laucala Campus in Fiji. USP plays a crucial role in the development of the Pacific region as a central hub for higher education, research and innovation, focusing on key regional challenges such as climate change, sustainable development, and resource management. Co-hosting this important event at USP will enhance and add value to our community outreach and capacity-building initiatives, collaboration with other CROP agencies and promoting/sharing our sustainable practices.”
He goes on to say, “The Forum Leaders have described climate change as the single greatest existential threat to the Pacific. This conference will bring governments and regional organisations together, potentially informing policy and advocating for sustainable and inclusive development, fostering regional cooperation and leadership. This is yet another important platform for the entire region to get together with global partners to dialogue on opportunities and finding solutions to our common challenges."
The conference is set to take place at the Laucala Campus of the University of South Pacific in Suva. It will feature discussions and skill-building workshops, keeping with the capacity-building format being followed this year.
While the in-person registrations are now closed, interested participants can attend the event virtually by registering here.
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For media inquiries, please contact:
Ragini Letitia Singh
Head of Communications, Global Development Network
Email: [email protected]
Tushita Varma
Conference Communications Officer, Global Development Network
Email: [email protected]
Charlene Lanyon
Manager, PR and Communications, University of South Pacific
Email: [email protected]
