IGAD to Convene 4th Scientific Conference on Migration, Displacement, & Urbanization in Addis

Addis Ababa, May 17, 2025 (ENA) – – The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) is set to host the 4th IGAD Scientific Conference from May 19-21, 2025, in Addis Ababa.

Organized under the theme: “Migration, Displacement, and Urbanization: Implications for Sustainable Development,” the conference will serve as a premier platform for scholars, researchers, policymakers, and development practitioners to examine the intricate linkages between migration, displacement, and urbanization, and their impact on sustainable development across the IGAD region.

IGAD said in a press release today that the conference seeks to generate actionable recommendations to inform evidence-based policymaking at both regional and national levels by fostering interdisciplinary dialogue.

Urbanization is profoundly reshaping the IGAD region, with cities increasingly serving as primary destinations for migrants and displaced populations.

This trend presents both opportunities and challenges—ranging from economic revitalization and social cohesion to infrastructure pressure and governance complexities.

The unprecedented scale of migration and displacement necessitates innovative and inclusive urban planning strategies that balance humanitarian response with long-term development objectives.

The 4th IGAD Scientific Conference will explore these dynamics under five key sub-themes: drivers and root causes; urban governance and policy; socio-economic integration; financing, investment, and innovation; and data and evidence for policy and planning.

The convening of this conference underscores IGAD’s enduring commitment to advancing research-driven policies that address the complexities of migration and urbanization.

The conference will catalyze critical discussions aimed at shaping inclusive and resilient urban futures across the region by engaging a broad spectrum of stakeholders.

The 4th IGAD Scientific Conference is organized in collaboration with Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH, the Government of Sweden, Cities Alliance, ReDSS, and the IGAD Universities Forum.