The UN International Conference on Financing for Development is a big deal. It is held only once a decade, on a topic that the majority of the world – developing countries – cares about deeply. Global cuts to aid make this a particularly vital time to think about the alternatives to official development assistance, so more than 15,000 delegates made their way to Seville for the conference which opened 30 June. With Australia and the Pacific seeking to host COP31 in 2026, it was a great opportunity to see what a huge international summit really involves. Immediately it was clear that an international event of this size is not just one thing. There’s an official program – with countries presenting their national statements one after another. More than 50 heads of state and government came and held bilateral meetings, as well as ministerial-level representatives.
UN development summit shows who’s really fanning the flames | Lowy Institute
