University of Gävle, Sweden | 23–25 August 2023

Theme: Social Development in Times of Crisis: Challenges and Responses

Hosted by the Department of Social Work and Criminology at the University of Gävle, the 23rd ICSD Biennial International Conference brought together scholars, practitioners and social development professionals from around the world to examine how societies can respond to increasingly complex global crises through research, policy and practice.

The conference explored the challenges posed by conflict, forced migration, inequality, public health crises and social protection, while highlighting innovative and evidence-based approaches to promoting social justice, peace and human wellbeing. Through keynote addresses, panel discussions and research presentations, delegates reflected on the evolving role of social development in building more resilient and inclusive societies.

A highlight of the conference was the presentation of the James Billups International Social Development Leadership Award to Distinguished Professor Leila Patel of the University of Johannesburg and Professor James Midgley of the University of California, Berkeley, in recognition of their outstanding contributions to the field of social development. The programme also featured the Shanti Khinduka Lecture, delivered by Professor Leila Patel, as well as keynote presentations on solidarity, refugee wellbeing, migration, racism and peacebuilding by leading international scholars. The conference further recognised the University of Gävle and members of the organising committee for their significant contributions to advancing social development and international collaboration.