What is the Sustainable Development Conference (SDC)?
The Sustainable Development Conference is SDPI’s flagship annual forum, bringing together policymakers, researchers, practitioners, development partners, civil society and academia for evidence-based dialogue on sustainable development challenges and solutions. The SDC series has been held since 1995.
When and where will SDC 2026 take place?
The 29th Sustainable Development Conference will be held in Islamabad, Pakistan, from 2-5 November 2026 at the Allama Iqbal Open University, Islamabad. Please check the Conference Agenda for session-specific details.
What is the theme of SDC 2026?
The theme of SDC 2026 is ‘Rethinking Development in an Age of Disruption.’ The Conference will examine how geopolitical tensions, economic fragmentation, climate change, technological transformation and changing global institutions are reshaping development through three Es: Environment, Equity and Economy.
Who can attend the Conference?
SDC welcomes policymakers, researchers, academics, practitioners, development professionals, civil society representatives, students and other stakeholders interested in sustainable development.
How can I register/attend the SDC 2026?
Those who wish to attend the Conference online can register and attend sessions of their interest.
Is there a registration fee?
There is no registration fee for SDC 2026. Members of the general public are welcome to attend; however, travel, accommodation and meals are not covered by the Conference.
Where can I find the Conference Agenda?
Closer to the Conference, the Conference Agenda will be made available at SDC’s homepage.
Who will be speaking at SDC 2026?
SDC brings together national and international policymakers, researchers, development practitioners, experts and thought leaders. Speakers names and profiles are shared on the SDC website as they get finalised.
What topics will SDC 2026 cover?
The Conference will address issues spanning the economy, governance and security; environment; equity and human development; climate and energy; development finance; trade; global governance, emerging technologies and other contemporary development challenges.
Can I present research at SDC 2026?
For those who are interested in presenting may visit the list of panels, review the concept note of the relevant panel, and see if it is accepting abstracts.
Where can I find submission guidelines for papers and abstracts?
Submission requirements, panel descriptions, deadlines and authors’ guidelines are published on the SDC website. Authors should consult the Resources before submitting their work.
Can other institutes organise or partner on an SDC session?
SDPI collaborates with development partners, research institutions, public organisations and other stakeholders on Conference sessions and activities. Partnership enquiries may be directed to the SDC Team.
What is the Sustainability Investment Expo?
The Sustainability Investment Expo (SIE) is organised alongside SDC and provides a platform for organisations and innovators to showcase sustainable solutions, initiatives and investment opportunities. SIE also includes activities like stalls, Capacity Building Hubs, Fireside Chats, films and Sustainability Awards. For further details, please contact Ms Zainab Naeem: zainabnaeem@sdpi.org.
Can students and young professionals participate?
Yes. Students and young professionals can attend relevant Conference activities and may also apply for volunteering opportunities when calls are announced. Volunteer roles can include rapporteurship, protocol, hall management, social media, Expo support and SDTV.
Will international participants be able to attend?
Yes. SDC is an international event and welcomes participants and speakers from outside Pakistan. International participants should make their own travel and visa arrangements unless otherwise advised by the organisers.
Will sessions be available online?
All SDC sessions are live-streamed or made available through SDPI Live/SDTV and SDPI digital platforms. Details will be announced closer to the Conference.
Where can I find material from previous SDCs?
Previous Conference publications, policy recommendations, media coverage, photographs and other material can be accessed through the SDC Series.
How can I stay updated about SDC 2026?
Visit the SDC website regularly and follow SDPI’s official digital and social media platforms for announcements on panels, speakers and the Conference programme.
Who should I contact if my question is not answered here?
Please contact the SDC team: sdc@sdpi.org or +92-51-2278134 during office hours, Monday-Friday, 9:00am-5:00pm.