Just over a week into the new government and a stone’s throw from Big Ben, Future Advocacy co-hosted a key event in the international development calendar: “A New Government: A Modern Approach to Global Poverty and Climate”, alongside our partners, The Global Partnership for Sustainable Development Data and ODI.
The event featured the first public address by Anneliese Dodds, the newly appointed Minister for Development and Minister for Women and Equalities, alongside an impressive panel of experts who brought a wealth of knowledge and diverse perspectives, including UK Brazilian Ambassador, Antonio de Aguiar Patriota, Chief Executive of ODI, Sara Pantuliano, Country Director of the FCDO-funded International Growth Centre in Sierra Leone, Chukwu-Emeka Chikezie, CEO of Global Partnership for Sustainable Development Data, Claire Melamed and Senior International Policy Advisor and International Secretary at the Labour Party, Joe Corry-Roake.
It was a full house packed with leaders from NGOs, think tanks and academic institutions eager to hear the Minister and the panel discuss the urgent global poverty and climate change issues facing the new government.
Minister Dodds spoke with hope and determination about Labour’s commitment to tackle global challenges. She emphasised the critical need to address conflict, climate emergencies, economic hardship, and humanitarian crises whilst highlighting the importance of forming genuine, respectful partnerships with the Global South and reconnecting Britain with its international partners. Although just a week into the role, the Minister spoke to an ambitious agenda, prioritising humanitarian aid, reforming the global financial system, preventing conflicts, and empowering women and girls.
She also noted the vital role of data and evidence in fostering sustainable development and growth, “I know how critical evidence and data will be. I understand the importance of exploring ways to harness the Power of Data to promote growth in a more equal and sustainable world, embracing the opportunities of digital transformation.” The Minister calls on everyone present to support and encourage collective efforts to achieve these goals.
Our panellists gave valuable insights that expanded on these themes. Ambassador Patriota critiqued the North-South dynamics in climate negotiations and urged developed countries to honour their commitments to support the South. Sara Pantuliano emphasised the need for accountability in conflict responses and the importance of supporting social movements worldwide. Chukwu-Emeka Chikezie urged the new government to listen to young people’s protests and address their concerns as a crucial step for effective climate action and development. Claire Melamed recognised the immense opportunities and inherent risks in AI and data-driven technologies for modern development. Joe Corry-Roake spoke of the Labour Party’s commitment to security and prosperity through interconnected domestic and international policies, emphasising the importance of multilateral cooperation, climate action, and inclusive partnerships to address global challenges.
The event closed with an engaging Q&A session with the audience, who raised critical questions on topics ranging from ensuring the energy transition respects Indigenous lands and promotes shared prosperity to leveraging Brazil’s leadership in clean energy, supporting global transitions, and reframing migration as a positive force in achieving net zero and addressing global labour shortages.
Thank you to everyone who joined us. The dynamic exchange of ideas and the palpable energy in the room was hugely inspiring. We are excited to build on this momentum with the sector as it continues to champion innovative solutions and advocate for a brighter future for all.
