The UNU-MERIT Internal Conference 2026 brings together the Institute’s research community for two days of ideas, exchange and connection.
Across 18 parallel sessions, colleagues will present their latest research through papers and research pitches, offering a snapshot of the breadth and diversity of work taking place across UNU-MERIT. From poverty, migration and social protection to innovation, structural transformation, education, climate governance, artificial intelligence, digital transformation and global value chains, the conference creates space to discover new research, exchange ideas and engage with work across research groups and disciplines.
The programme will also feature a poster session organised by the Development Economics Research Group, providing an opportunity to explore ongoing research and connect with colleagues across the Institute.
The conference will feature two keynote lectures, offering fresh perspectives and inspiration. Dr. Rachel Ngai from the London School of Economics will speak on Structural Transformation and Gender: Agriculture, Home Production, and Land Rights, while Dr. Amir Lebdioui from the University of Oxford will also share his insights in a keynote lecture.
And, of course, the conference is about more than presentations. Coffee breaks, shared lunches and an informal conference reception at De Brandweerkantine will create plenty of opportunities to reconnect, meet new colleagues and continue conversations beyond the session rooms.
Whether you are presenting your own work, looking for fresh ideas, or simply curious about the research happening across UNU-MERIT, we hope you will join us for two days of research, discussion, discovery and community.
