The Future of Development Co-operation
Charting strategic directions

OECD Paris | 11 - 12 May 2026


International development co-operation is at a turning point, with major structural changes. This is a moment for renewal of purpose, priorities and power dynamics. Geopolitical and economic priorities are shifting, public resources for development are tightening, and delivering impact has become a defining test of legitimacy. Meanwhile, demands are rising for development co-operation that promotes trade, investment, and security, leading to inclusive economies, peace, and shared prosperity.

This conference will focus on action, connecting geopolitical realities with development priorities and translating vision into practical strategic directions. Development co-operation leaders will leave with renewed purpose, clearer priorities and actionable pathways for impact. 

Join political leaders, senior policy makers, thought leaders, private sector players, and civil society actors from across the world. The agenda will include keynote speeches, panel discussions, and interactive roundtables, where participants will share visions for the future, challenge assumptions, and identify practical ways forward, shaping the development policies at the frontlines of humanity’s greatest challenges. 


International development co-operation is at a crossroads.

Geopolitical priorities are shifting. Public resources have tightened. The purpose of development cooperation is being tested. Showing impact and value has become a defining legitimacy test.

This conference will bring together political leaders, senior policymakers, thought leaders, private sector players, and civil society from across the world. Together, we will debate and chart strategic directions for international development co-operation, with the aim of giving new energy to its purpose, priorities, and impact.

The goal of the conference is to rebuild the credibility and focus of development co-operation, maximise its impact, and make it fit for what comes next.

Day 1

Visions for a new era
Participants will debate bold ideas for a new era of development co-operation, from the goals and principles of new co-operation paradigms to the best use of all policy and financial tools for impact.

Day 2

Strategic directions for purpose and impact
Decision-makers and experts will stress-test proposals for the future of development co-operation, translating vision into action. Proposals from key initiatives on the future of international development co-operation, including the OECD Development Assistance Committee Review, will form the basis for deliberations.

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Event location

OECD Conference Centre 2, rue André-Pascal 75016 Paris
www.oecd.org/conference-centre