In an era marked by economic uncertainty, geopolitical tensions, climate shocks, and rapid technological change, the question of how countries can pursue equitable and sustainable development has never been more urgent. For developing economies like Ethiopia—and for Africa as a whole—this challenge is not theoretical. It is lived daily in the form of inflationary pressures, unemployment, food insecurity, fiscal stress, climate vulnerability, and widening inequalities.
Against this backdrop, the 23rd International Conference of the Ethiopian Economics Association (EEA), scheduled to take place on July 17–18, 2026, in Addis Ababa, emerges as a timely and strategically important platform. Under the theme “Shaping Equitable and Sustainable Development in a Changing Global Landscape,” the conference invites scholars, policymakers, development practitioners, and private sector actors to engage in rigorous debate, evidence-based analysis, and forward-looking policy dialogue.
More than just an academic gathering, this conference represents a space where ideas meet practice, where research findings can inform policy decisions, and where Ethiopia’s development experience can be examined within broader regional and global contexts. The call for papers issued by the EEA reflects both the complexity of today’s development challenges and the necessity of interdisciplinary, inclusive, and innovative responses.
The Ethiopian Economics Association: A Pillar of Policy Dialogue and Research
Since its establishment, the Ethiopian Economics Association has played a critical role in shaping economic discourse in Ethiopia. It has consistently served as a bridge between academic research and policy formulation, creating platforms where economists, government officials, international organizations, and civil society can exchange ideas.
Over the years, EEA’s international conferences have become important milestones in Ethiopia’s intellectual and policy calendar. These conferences have addressed themes ranging from macroeconomic management and poverty reduction to structural transformation, industrialization, and governance. The 23rd edition continues this tradition, but with a sharper focus on equity, sustainability, and global interconnectedness.
In a world where national economies are deeply influenced by global supply chains, financial flows, climate agreements, and technological innovations, no country can design effective development strategies in isolation. The EEA conference recognizes this reality and positions Ethiopia’s development debate firmly within the changing global landscape.
Why This Theme Matters Now More Than Ever
The chosen theme—Shaping Equitable and Sustainable Development in a Changing Global Landscape—is not merely aspirational. It responds directly to the realities facing developing economies today.
A Shifting Global Economy
The global economic order is undergoing significant transformation. Trade patterns are changing, globalization is being redefined, and geopolitical rivalries are reshaping supply chains. For countries like Ethiopia, these shifts present both risks and opportunities. While global disruptions can threaten export earnings and foreign investment, they can also open space for regional integration, value chain upgrading, and industrial diversification.
The Equity Challenge
Economic growth alone is no longer sufficient. Across the world, including in Ethiopia, growth has often been accompanied by persistent inequality, whether along income, gender, geographic, or generational lines. Equitable development requires deliberate policy choices—investments in human capital, inclusive labor markets, social protection systems, and gender-responsive policies.
Sustainability as a Development Imperative
Climate change has moved from being a long-term concern to an immediate crisis. Ethiopia’s economy, heavily dependent on agriculture and natural resources, is particularly vulnerable to climate shocks. Sustainable development is therefore not optional; it is a survival strategy. This requires integrating environmental considerations into macroeconomic planning, energy policy, fiscal frameworks, and investment strategies.
A Conference Designed for Dialogue and Impact
The 23rd EEA International Conference is structured to encourage deep engagement and diverse perspectives. It will feature:
- Plenary sessions addressing overarching development challenges
- Panel discussions led by experts from academia, government, and international organizations
- Parallel paper presentations allowing detailed exploration of specific themes
- Poster sessions to showcase emerging research and innovative ideas
- Sponsored partner sessions focusing on policy priorities and institutional perspectives
Importantly, the conference welcomes contributions not only from economists but also from scholars in related disciplines, policymakers, development practitioners, and professionals engaged in economic planning and implementation.
Understanding the Selection Process: From Abstract to Presentation
The EEA has adopted a two-stage selection process to ensure both inclusivity and quality.
In the first stage, authors are invited to submit research abstracts. These abstracts are reviewed to assess their relevance to the conference theme, originality, methodological rigor, and policy relevance. Authors whose abstracts are accepted will then be invited to submit full papers.
The second stage involves a detailed review of the full papers. Submissions that meet the required academic and policy standards will be selected for presentation during the conference. This process ensures that discussions are grounded in solid evidence while still allowing room for innovative and exploratory research.
Exploring the Conference Themes
One of the strengths of the 23rd EEA International Conference lies in the breadth and relevance of its thematic areas. These themes reflect Ethiopia’s development priorities while also engaging with global debates.
Global Economic Resilience and Macroeconomic Stability
Macroeconomic stability remains a cornerstone of sustainable development. Ethiopia, like many developing countries, faces challenges related to inflation, exchange rate management, fiscal deficits, and external debt. Research under this theme can explore strategies for enhancing economic resilience in the face of global shocks, improving monetary and fiscal coordination, and managing macroeconomic trade-offs.
Sustainable Development and Green Economic Transformation
The transition toward a green economy is both a challenge and an opportunity. Ethiopia has articulated ambitious climate and green growth strategies, but implementation remains complex. Papers in this area may examine green industrial policies, renewable energy investments, sustainable urbanization, and the economic implications of climate adaptation and mitigation.
Trade, Regional Integration, and Global Value Chains
As Ethiopia deepens its engagement with regional and global markets, questions of competitiveness, trade policy, and value chain integration become increasingly important. This theme encourages research on regional trade agreements, export diversification, logistics and infrastructure, and the role of industrial parks in global value chains.
Artificial Intelligence, Automation, and the Future of Economic Systems
Technological change is reshaping economies worldwide. Artificial intelligence, automation, and digital platforms are transforming production, employment, and service delivery. For Ethiopia, the challenge is to harness these technologies for development while managing risks related to job displacement and digital inequality.
Human Capital, Labor Markets, and the Future of Work
Human capital development lies at the heart of long-term growth. This theme invites analysis of education quality, skills mismatches, labor market dynamics, migration, and youth employment. Understanding how labor markets are evolving is crucial for designing policies that ensure inclusive growth.
Agricultural Transformation, Food Security, and Rural Development
Agriculture remains central to Ethiopia’s economy and livelihoods. Research under this theme can address productivity growth, agricultural commercialization, food security, rural infrastructure, and the role of smallholders in structural transformation.
Natural Resources, Climate Change, and Energy Transitions
The management of natural resources and the transition to sustainable energy systems are critical development challenges. Papers may explore water and land management, climate resilience, renewable energy policy, and the economic impacts of environmental degradation.
Financial Systems, Inclusion, and Digital Transformation
Financial inclusion and digital finance are rapidly expanding in Ethiopia. This theme focuses on banking sector development, fintech innovation, mobile money, and the role of financial systems in supporting investment and entrepreneurship.
Inequality, Gender, and Inclusive Welfare Systems
Inclusive development requires addressing structural inequalities. Research in this area may examine gender gaps, social protection programs, poverty dynamics, and the design of welfare systems that promote social cohesion.
Governance, Institutions, and Policy Coherence for Sustainable Growth
Strong institutions and effective governance are essential for translating policies into outcomes. This theme invites work on public sector reform, regulatory quality, institutional capacity, and policy coordination.
Fiscal Sustainability, Debt Management, and Public Sector Reforms
With rising public debt across developing countries, fiscal sustainability has become a pressing concern. Papers may analyze debt dynamics, public expenditure efficiency, revenue mobilization, and fiscal reforms.
Green Investments, Climate Finance, and Private Sector Engagement
Mobilizing private investment for sustainable development is a key challenge. This theme focuses on climate finance, public-private partnerships, investment incentives, and the role of the private sector in green growth.
Important Dates to Remember
For prospective contributors, keeping track of key deadlines is essential:
- January 10, 2026 – Abstract submission deadline
- January 30, 2026 – Notification of abstract acceptance
- April 30, 2026 – Full paper submission deadline
- May 25, 2026 – Notification of final acceptance
- June 25, 2026 – Deadline for Expressions of Interest for sponsored sessions
- June 30, 2026 – Registration deadline
- July 17–18, 2026 – Conference dates
These milestones reflect a well-structured timeline that allows authors sufficient time to refine their research and engage meaningfully with the conference process.
Why Researchers and Policymakers Should Participate
Participation in the 23rd EEA International Conference offers multiple benefits. For researchers, it provides an opportunity to present work to a diverse audience, receive feedback, and engage with policy debates. For policymakers, the conference serves as a source of evidence-based insights that can inform decision-making.
For young scholars and early-career researchers, the conference offers visibility, networking opportunities, and exposure to cutting-edge research. For institutions and development partners, it provides a platform to showcase initiatives, sponsor discussions, and contribute to national and regional policy conversations.
Addis Ababa: A Strategic Venue for Global Dialogue
Hosting the conference in Addis Ababa adds symbolic and practical significance. As the diplomatic capital of Africa and home to the African Union, Addis Ababa is a natural hub for continental dialogue. The city’s growing role in regional integration and international diplomacy makes it an ideal setting for discussions on global and regional development dynamics.
Conclusion: From Ideas to Impact
The 23rd Ethiopian Economics Association International Conference comes at a critical moment. As Ethiopia and the world navigate economic uncertainty, environmental pressures, and social transformation, the need for thoughtful, inclusive, and evidence-based development strategies is undeniable.
This conference is not merely about presenting papers. It is about shaping narratives, challenging assumptions, and building pathways toward a more equitable and sustainable future. By bringing together diverse voices and perspectives, the EEA continues to contribute meaningfully to Ethiopia’s development journey and to broader global debates.
For anyone engaged in understanding and shaping economic development—whether as a researcher, policymaker, or practitioner—the 23rd EEA International Conference represents an opportunity not to be missed.
