Conference Vision

The nature of the relationship between people, place and power is changing and community work practices across the globe need to be able to influence these new global dynamics. Global challenges of climate change, forced and economic migration, increasing levels of mental ill health, isolation and loneliness alongside the rise of right-wing populism and threat to human rights mean that we need to find new ways of disrupting, challenging and revealing structures of power.

The city of Dundee has a rich history of social change, community activism and community arts and it is through celebrating the achievements of the city’s past that we will build spaces for engaged, practice-led dialogue that poses questions about the identity, purpose and practices of community development.

Reasons to Attend

The conference provides a unique opportunity for practitioners, participants, academics, policy makers, funders and other stakeholders to share perspectives on current contexts and challenges for community work. The conference will encompass cutting edge inputs, papers, creative installations and poster presentations on rights-based community development, addressing and engaging locally, nationally and internationally.

Practice Exchange

Following the main conference, delegates will have the opportunity to take part in a one, two- or four-day themed learning journey to see community development in action in the east coast of Scotland. This will enable a deeper understanding of the context and practice of community development in rural and urban settings in Dundee and neighbouring areas. If you are interested in taking advantage of this wonderful opportunity, please see the ‘Practice Exchanges’ tab for details of each experience and links for booking.

Key Dates

23 June 2019: International Reception and Welcome

24-26 June 2019: Main Conference

27-30 June: Optional practice exchanges and learning journeys in East Scotland

Conference Organisers

The conference organisers are the International Association for Community Development (IACD), the Scottish Government, the Community Learning and Development team at the University of Dundee, Dundee City Council, and Leisure and Culture Dundee, supported by Dundee and Angus Convention Bureau.