OECD Global Forum on Local Development 2026

Side event: Defense, Skills and Place: Unlocking Regional and Local Development Opportunities

May 28, 2026 | 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM
SL Room 2.4 Congo

Description

Rising geopolitical tensions have led to increases in defence spending, with far‑reaching implications for regional economies, labour markets and public policy. This session brings together policymakers and industry leaders for a focused conversation on how defence investment can better align industry, education and regional development so that benefits are widely shared across territories.

Presented by

Calum Taylor

Ministry of Defence

Deputy Director - Industry Skills and Place

Josh Waite

Chief Executive Officer

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jlwaite/

Lukas Kleine-Rueschkamp

Centre for Entrepreneurship, SMEs, Regions and Cities, OECD

Head of Unit, Local Employment and Skills

linkedin.com/in/lukas-kleine-rueschkamp-21b1291b0

Matteo Laffi

Professional, Economic Research Area

https://www.linkedin.com/in/matteo-laffi/

Sophia Tsellou

Hellenic Ministry of National Economy and Finance

Scientific Advisor, Economic Growth and Structural Reforms Division, CEA

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