As global challenges grow more complex and conflicts continue to surge, shifting political priorities are reshaping the landscape of peacebuilding and international development. Experts will examine the impact of funding cuts to international aid — including those to US Agency for International Development (USAID), the UK’s Foreign Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), and major European donors — and the diversion of these resources toward defence and security agendas.

Held alongside the Imaging Peace and Waymarkers exhibitions, initiated and produced by King’s Culture, which share the perspectives of people directly affected by conflict and migration, this timely talk will explore the potential impact of these changes on communities, civil society organisations, locally led initiatives, and long-term transformative programming in conflict zones. The panel will reflect on how the sector can respond to increasing constraints on civil society actors and shifting donor priorities.

At this critical moment, we ask: What happens to peace and justice now?

Led by King’s Faculty of Social Science & Public policy
Speakers include:

Professor 'Funmi Olonisakin, Vice President (International, Engagement & Service) and Professor of Security, Leadership & Development, King's College London (Chair)
Dr Tiffany Fairey, Senior Research Fellow, Department of War Studies, King's College London (welcome and introduction)
Dr Teresa Dumasy, Director of Research, Advisory and Policy Department, Conciliation Resources
Dr Olawale Ismail, Senior Lecturer in Leadership, Peace & Development Education

Before the talk, attendees are invited to join drop-in tours of the Imaging Peace and Waymarkers exhibition from 17:00. The panel discussion will begin at 18:00 and a drinks reception will follow.