WORLD - Development economics now has its first global professional association with the launch of the International Development Economics Association (IDEA), a new worldwide organization aimed at uniting researchers, students, and practitioners in the field.
Founded in 2026 by a group of 89 scholars from more than 40 countries, International Development Economics Association (IDEA) is designed as an open and democratically governed community for anyone working in or studying development economics, regardless of career stage, geography, or methodological approach.
The association places special emphasis on supporting scholars in low- and middle-income countries who often lack access to comparable global professional networks.
IDEA is governed by a 15-member board elected by its founding members and representing six continents. Its leadership was formally seated in April 2026.
Planned Activities and Global Reach
IDEA plans to launch a range of initiatives, including a working paper series, international conferences, virtual events, mentorship programs, and career development opportunities spanning from undergraduate students to senior academics.
The association also aims to build partnerships with existing institutions in the field, including a three-year collaboration with the Bureau for Research and Economic Analysis of Development (BREAD), which will hold an ex-officio, non-voting seat on IDEA’s board.
Development economists and researchers are invited to join IDEA and become part of its global network by signing up at:
IDEA Membership
