Annual review

Two women talking sit opposite each other at a desk with paper on it. In the background is a sign saying 'South Hall Town Hall' — Rosy Lavine Fernandes and Juliet Manufor, two community peer researchers with the Living Roots project.

Over the last year, worsening crises continued to affect the lives and livelihoods of millions of people globally, meaning our vision of a more equitable and sustainable world feels more vital, relevant and urgent than ever.

Our Annual Review 2023-24 highlights the many successes we have celebrated, despite this turbulent backdrop. Working with almost 600 partners, we have co-created high-quality evidence and analysis on a wide range of issues, including on:

the impact of rapid climate transitions on people’s livelihoods, wellbeing and environment
how working children help improve access to education
addressing food systems inequities
the causes of democratic backsliding and increasing accountability.

Download the IDS Annual Review 2023-24

Deepak Nayyar, IDS Board Chair, said:

“The need for world-class development research which reflects lived experience, as well as rigorous analysis, has never been greater. Facts, knowledge, and understanding provided by research can help to find solutions. With a reputation for excellence and for teaching the leaders of tomorrow, IDS has a clear-cut contribution to make – in influencing policies and practices, reframing narratives, and mobilising new networks – borne out by the wide-ranging impact stories showcased in our Annual Review.”

Peter Taylor, IDS Acting Director, said:

“As IDS moves towards the end of its current strategy in 2025, we reflect back whilst also “recasting forward”. Our vision of a more equitable and sustainable world, where people everywhere can live their lives free from poverty and injustice, feels more vital, relevant and urgent than ever. In our Annual Review we celebrate many positive achievements over the past year that show how our contributions through research, teaching and engagement are having real impact.”

Highlights of IDS work over the past 12 months include:

Download the IDS Annual Review 2023-24