CADA has launched a new project to develop an evidence-based case for establishing an international development strategy in Northern Ireland, marking an important milestone for the international development sector.
Project launched at CADA AGM
The initiative was launched at CADA’s Annual General Meeting on 23rd June 2026, hosted by Trócaire in Belfast, where members heard from Frances Guy, CEO of Scotland’s International Development Alliance. Drawing on Scotland’s experience, she highlighted how international development can become part of a devolved government’s priorities and helped set the context for the consultation.
Since then, organisations and individuals from across the sector have contributed their views through CADA’s consultation and sector survey. Their feedback will help shape the recommendations in the final report.
Looking ahead
Northern Ireland remains the only legislature across Britain and Ireland without a formal international development function. CADA’s report will set out an evidence-based case for change and will be launched at Stormont on 16 September 2026.
The launch will bring together Assembly Members, representatives from the humanitarian and development sector, and invited guests. The keynote address will be delivered by Rt Hon Lord Jack McConnell, former First Minister of Scotland, who led the development of Scotland’s international development programme.
The report represents an important step in strengthening Northern Ireland’s contribution to international development, and CADA looks forward to sharing its findings with members, policymakers and partners. The report will be available from September 2026. In the meantime, you can read the background research paper produced by the NI Assembly Research and Information Service here: NIAR-130-2025_MLA Query_International Development (1)