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A major international development conference will take place in London on 19–20 May 2026, bringing together governments, charities, investors, and business leaders from around the world.
The Global Partnerships Conference aims to build new alliances to tackle shared global challenges, including climate change, poverty, conflict, and weak health systems.
Organisers say the event will focus on practical solutions that promote long-term growth and reduce reliance on traditional aid.
The UK has announced that it will co-host the summit as part of a wider effort to reshape how international development works.
The conference is being led by the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office alongside the Republic of South Africa, the Children’s Investment Fund Foundation (CIFF), and British International Investment (BII).
Together, these partners aim to create stronger, more modern forms of cooperation that encourage investment, innovation, and local leadership.
Global pressures are affecting countries everywhere.
Economic shocks, rising food and energy prices, extreme weather events, and ongoing conflicts are disrupting trade and increasing instability.
Health crises such as tuberculosis and malaria continue to affect millions of people.
Leaders say these challenges are connected and require countries to work together more closely.
Rather than relying mainly on grants and aid programmes, organisers want to promote a more investment-focused approach.
This means helping countries build stronger systems, attract private capital, and develop sustainable economies.
The conference will explore ways to unlock new sources of finance, apply technology to improve public services,s and support governments in leading their own development plans.
UK Development Minister Baroness Chapman said many countries are asking for a different kind of partnership. She explained:
“Countries want to have more control, move beyond aid, attract investment, strengthen their own health and education systems, and take charge of their own futures.”
This reflects a growing view that development should help nations become self-sufficient over time.
Instead of long-term dependency on foreign support, the aim is to strengthen local institutions and create jobs and opportunities.
Philanthropic organisations are expected to play a central role at the summit.
The Children’s Investment Fund Foundation, one of the co-hosts, focuses on improving children’s health, nutrition, and protection, especially in low- and middle-income countries.
Its involvement shows how charities are becoming key partners in shaping global development strategies.
Kate Hampton, CEO of CIFF, highlighted the importance of collaboration. She said:
“Supporting urgent, lasting change for children all over the world requires not only renewed effort but new ways of collaborating. Philanthropy is not a substitute for the action of sovereign governments, but can work alongside them to mobilise the necessary resources and skills, and accelerate progress for people.”
Her comments underline the idea that charities can bring funding, expertise,e and innovation, but must work together with governments and investors to create lasting impact.
South Africa’s participation also highlights the global nature of the event.
As a co-host, it represents developing and emerging economies that want a stronger voice in shaping international policy.
South African Minister Maropene Ramokgopa said cooperation is especially important during times of crisis. She noted
“Partnerships that are anchored in shared values and practical cooperation matter more than ever. Through partnerships and collaboration, we can accelerate progress on developmental priorities while contributing meaningfully to global solutions.”
The Global Partnerships Conference aims to produce real agreements and new coalitions that continue beyond the two-day meeting.
By combining public funding, private investment, and philanthropic support, organisers hope to build stronger, more resilient economies.
