The World Community Development Conference

Since 2018 IACD, together with national partners has organised the World Community Development Conference (WCDC). This is a global gathering of members and other participants organised to network, share and learn from community development practice from different countries and across global regions. Each WCDC has a theme related to a topical political, social, economic, environmental issue affecting communities and of concern to the discipline and practice of community development.

Attracting several hundred participants, these gatherings bring together keynote speakers, panel debates and dozens of workshops and practical learning sessions, presented by practitioners, educators and researchers and key influencers within the discipline. Each WCDC also provides opportunities to visit local projects in proximity. Following the conference an extended Practice Exchange visit of 3/4 days may also be organised for a smaller group of participants wishing to learn more about community development in the host country.

All WCDC’s are organised with host partners, normally a national community development association or agency, and supported by the host local authority and national government.

World Community Development Conference 2026

Get ready to once again gather, connect, share, and discuss all things community development! We're thrilled to announce the dates and location for the next World Community Development Conference in 2026. Mark your calendars as we gather in Scotland at the prestigious University of Glasgow, our conference partner. More details about the conference programme, call for proposals, and registration arrangements will follow in the coming weeks. Questions? Email: [email protected]