Conferences are a major part of the association’s work.
Every year we organise the World Community Development Conference –usually in partnership with a national association or an IACD member in the nation hosting the conference. These conferences usually attract 300-500 participants from all around the world. They include high profile keynote speakers, panel debates and dozens of workshops, plus field visits to community development projects in proximity.
In addition to the WCDC, the association also supports global regional conferences organised by national/regional community development or other partners. These are usually smaller conferences/seminars attracting 50-150 participants, although some may be larger. Again they will have keynote speakers, panel debates, workshops etc.
You will find out more about past World Community Development Conferences along with other past and future conferences on the menu item “What Does IACD Do” -> “Conferences.”
Recent World Community Development Conferences — WCDC2021 and WCDC2019
We are delighted to announce that our first ever completely virtual World Community Development Conference was successfully held from 21 – 23 June 2021. Originally due to take place in Nairobi, Kenya in summer 2020, the WCDC Committee chaired by Daniel Muia made the decision to delay by one year and hold the conference online.
As this was our first virtual conference, we were able to record presentations, workshops, and keynote speeches to share with all those who were unable to participate. You can access all conference recordings on the Virtual WCDC YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/VirtualWCDC/videos
The most recent in-person World Community Development Conference took place in Dundee, Scotland from 23rd June – 28th June 2019 with the theme, “People, Place, and Power.”
Recent Regional Conferences
The most recent regional conference co-hosted by IACD was the Second International Inclusive Practices Conference in Georgia in September 2020. The programme of the Festival included workshops, seminars, screening of documentaries, a photo exhibition, a concert and excursion programs. A special session on the practical implementation of the International Standards for Community Development “Community Development & Disability” was hosted by Anna Clark, Chair of IACD.
Future Conferences
We are looking forward to WCDC2022 in Ureki, Georgia — watch this space!