FAQ

What is the ABCDE Conference?
The Bank Conferences on Development Economics is one of the world's best known series of conferences for the presentation and discussion of new knowledge about development. First held at World Bank headquarters in Washington D.C. in 1988, the series has become broader in scope as the world's economies have become more interconnected and challenges have become more complex.
The global conferences are inclusive academic meetings with a global angle, whereas the regional conferences focus on regional-specific issues in the context of global economy. The regional conferences reflect the growing importance of research in developing countries. In 2008, the global and regional conferences will be merged into one. Read more...

Who can participate?
The ABCDE is open to all kinds of audiences: researchers, NGO and private sector representatives, policy makers, journalists and graduate students, with interest in development issues.

How can I participate?
To participate, please fill in the online application. You will then receive a confirmation of reception. At a later stage, you will receive information about the status of your application. Please note that only officially accepted participants may attend the conference. Registration closed on May 28.

Is funding offered to attend the ABCDE?
Each year the ABCDE Support Grant allows 20-30 participants from developing countries to attend the ABCDE. The Grant covers full travel and accommodation costs for the duration of the conference. Eligible participants must be nationals of and currently reside in a developing or transition country. Speakers, discussants and chairpersons in plenary and parallel sessions will receive funding for travel and accommodation. Read more...

Can I present a paper at the ABCDE?
Plenary session papers are selected by the Steering Committee and are not subject to an open call for applications. However, any organization (research institute, think tank, university, NGO, government agency) may send a proposal for a specific session, on one of the topic of the conference. Submissions are subject to a competitive process led by the ABCDE Steering Committee. Read more...

How can I book accommodation in Cape Town?
Starting from early March, you will be able to make an online booking via the ABCDE website, at special rates available to ABCDE participants. Accommodation will be at your own cost.

How can I get a South African visa?
Confirmed ABCDE participants who need a visa to enter South Africa, will receive an invitation letter from the organizers, which they will need to present at the nearest embassy or consulate, together with proof of sufficient resources to travel to and stay in South Africa. Organizers do not guarantee that the visa will be issued.  Read more...

I am a journalist. How can I participate?
Journalists can take part if the ABCDE as accredited press or regular participants. Registration for accredited press will be open in March 2007 on the ABCDE website.

I have another question...who do I contact?
For general inquiries, contact Ms. Anna Kuznicka at abcdeglobal(at)worldbank.org.