On 16 June 2026, our researchers joined leading experts and policymakers as participants in the Aid Priorities in Fragile and Conflict-Affected Contexts webinar, hosted by K4DD. The event brought together researchers and practitioners to examine one of the most pressing challenges in international development today.
With the majority of the world’s extreme poor projected to live in fragile and conflict-affected contexts (FCACs) by 2030, the discussion highlighted the growing importance of these settings for global development and global stability. Panellists explored what current evidence shows about the effectiveness of humanitarian and development assistance in FCACs, and the persistent operational challenges posed by conflict, weak governance, and fragile institutions.
A central theme was the tension between directing aid to where needs are greatest and the practical difficulties of working in environments where conflict may be ongoing. Speakers also reflected on how donors and development partners can support country ownership and sustainable development outcomes when state systems are contested or limited.
The session drew on emerging evidence and lessons from international development practice, identifying priority issues for policymakers, practitioners, and researchers.
The webinar was chaired by Professor Peter Taylor (K4DD and Institute of Development Studies) and featured contributions from our team members Professor Rachel Gisselquist and Dr Iffat Idris (University of Birmingham), alongside Mr Habib Mayar (g7+), Mr Vitalice Meja (Reality of Aid Africa), Professor Christoph Zuercher (University of Ottawa), and Mr Ranil Dissanayake (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office).
A recording of the webinar is now available on YouTube: Watch the webinar recording here.
