January 2026 News
SIDA UPDATES
January has brought a turbulent start to 2026 for the international community. We're feeling a renewed sense of purpose and drive to take action as we go into the year ahead with plenty of opportunities for collaboration and stories of inspiration to share - more important than ever in trying times!
Climate, justice and global challenges | Spring Conference 2026
Heading into 2026, our work continues to explore major challenges facing the sector. During our lunch time consultation earlier this month, we heard from members regarding key issues and questions that will inform our Spring Conference. The agenda is shaping up along key themes (find out more in the events section below), and seats are already filling up! Sign up now to join us on 10th March 2026. If you are interested in becoming a sponsor or an exhibitor at the event, please get in touch!
£16m for International Development | draft Scottish Budget
If you’re looking for evidence that our collective voice matters: despite shrinking aid budgets across the world, Scotland’s draft budget set out plans to devote £16million to international development and humanitarian emergencies.
Complete our annual survey
For SIDA members: our annual survey will already have landed in your inbox, so make sure to fill it out to be in with a chance of winning a £100 gift card for One World Shop!
Looking back on 2025
Earlier this week we launched our annual review, looking back on some of the key moments and achievements of 2025, despite the challenging context of global aid cuts and ongoing conflicts and humanitarian crises in Gaza, Sudan and other parts of the world. You can read the full report here.
“2025 has been a difficult year for many of our members and their partners [...] As a network we will seek to amplify the voices of our members and provide opportunities to share insights and knowledge. As a collective voice we will continue to work together for a fairer world.” - Frances Guy, SIDA CEO.
FOCUS ON: CIVIL SOCIETY ACTION
The latest Civicus Report, published last month, highlighted the staggering erosion of civil society freedoms across the globe. In the closing remarks of the report, authors pointed out that in today’s world, civil society action, despite carrying more risk, is more important than ever.
“In a world overwhelmed by disinformation, civil society’s truth telling serves as a crucial counterforce to the false narratives that sow division and mobilise hatred towards excluded groups. As recognition grows about the interconnectedness and transnational nature of today’s challenges, civil society is increasingly emphasising solidarity actions that transcend national boundaries and connect diverse struggles across different contexts.”
This month, we’re taking a look at some of the civil society actions taking place across the world, including right here in Scotland, reminding us not to turn away from global crises as they continue to unfold in places like Gaza, Sudan and Iran.
Last week, human rights and refugee advocates Giel Malual and John Kuei completed a 33-day, 800-mile walk across the UK, from Dungeness Beach in the south of England to Duncansby Head in northern Scotland, raising awareness and funds to support those affected by the world's worst humanitarian crisis happening right now in Sudan.
In Scotland, John and Giel were warmly welcomed by local communities; in Edinburgh, they connected with the local Sudanese community, and in Inverness, they shared a meal with the African Caribbean Asian Mixed Heritage Association (ACAMHA) community, alongside its founder Mya Chemonges Murzynowska, who also sits on SIDA’s board of trustees, and Hannah Clyne, SIDA’s Humanitarian and Global Citizenship Officer. Read more about their walk and hear reflections from Giel and Mya in our latest blog post.
Image: Loredana Sangiuliano / Shutterstock.com
Activists' hunger strike for Gaza
Elsewhere in the UK, activists have been taking major steps to draw attention to the ongoing crisis in Gaza. The UN High Commission on Human rights recently relayed the world’s concerns about potential Israeli actions against 37 humanitarian organisations providing essential support for civilians, warning as a result of these policies, Palestinians are facing "chronic deprivation, threatening their very survival as a group and further violating the Genocide Convention".
Activists Kamran, Heba, Umer and Lewie are among those who have been detained on remand following protest actions at UK military sites, relating to Palestine Action, before the group was proscribed as a terrorist organisation in June 2025.
Heba’s hunger strike lasted 73 days, ending after the government did not award a contract to an Israeli arms company. Umer’s hunger strike ended earlier this week when he was admitted to hospital and led to 86 further arrests as protesters gathered outside the prison where he is being held. For the latest news and information on the demands of the hunger strikers see this article from the Guardian.
Thousands take to the streets in Iran opposing the regime
Across the world, people have been taking to the streets to oppose oppressive regimes, most notably in Iran, where thousands have been killed and thousands more are at risk. As this Amnesty International report explains:
“People across the country, outraged at decades of repression, were demanding fundamental change and a political system that respects human rights and dignity. Iranian authorities have responded with an unprecedented deadly crackdown and, since 8 January 2026, cut all internet access to conceal their crimes. Security forces have used unlawful force, firearms and other prohibited weapons, against protesters, which resulted in mass killings and serious injuries.”
Image: Loredana Sangiuliano / Shutterstock.com
Protests in solidarity with the people of Iran have emerged in other countries, echoing calls for freedom and democracy, and speaking up for those whose voices have been censored. In another show of global solidarity, Protestors have also marched across Europe, in Holland, in Paris and in Brussels in protest at the lack of European action to support Kurdish civilians in North East Syria, drawing attention to the deteriorating situation for Kurds in the region.
MEMBER UPDATES
Job opportunity: Administration and Finance Officer | SCCS
Stop Climate Chaos Scotland (SCCS) is looking for an Administration and Finance Officer to join their team on a part time basis. This new role would suit someone with administration and finance experience who is naturally very well-organised, able to build strong relationships, enjoys working with lots of partners, and is committed to climate action and justice.
Energy Catalyst Funding Competition
The Challenges Group are seeking innovative technology organisations and in-country partners to collaborate with on Energy Catalyst Round 11 applications. Innovate UK announced up to £7 million in funding to support projects that expand or improve clean energy access in countries across sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia, the Indo-Pacific, and Latin America. Challenges has successfully collaborated with innovators in a commercial advisory capacity across several rounds of Energy Catalyst. In the past 3 years, Challenges have played a leading role in helping innovators secure ~£2m from this competitive stream alone. Find out more about The Challenges Group and Energy Catalyst below.
‘On the Frontlines of Hunger’ in Tigray, Ethiopia | Mary's Meals
SIDA Member Mary’s Meals were special guests at a private event held in the Scottish Parliament hosted by Sarah Boyack MSP and Secure Scotland. The event aimed to highlight the disturbing rise in atrocity crimes worldwide, concentrating on the interlinked human rights abuses that are starvation and Conflict Related Sexual Violence, both of which are experienced widely in Tigray, Ethiopia today. The event included a preview of Mary's Meals' film 'On the Frontlines of Hunger'.
HRH The Princess Royal Supports Scotland-Malawi Links
Last week, contributors to the Scotland Malawi Partnership Anthu Pamodzi photographic exhibition were honoured by the presence of SMP Honorary Patron, Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal, who attended the exhibition at Edinburgh City Chambers as part of celebrations marking the Partnership’s 20th anniversary.
SIDA members, this is your space! If you would like to feature in upcoming newsletters, please get in touch with us anytime at admin@intdevalliance.scot.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Join the SIDCN AGM
For smaller organisations, the SIDCN AGM will be held this Friday. As well as hearing updates and insights from 2025, there’ll be an opportunity for you to connect, discuss, and share your ideas for what SIDCN could look like in 2026, and beyond. Expect a brilliant line-up of speakers and breakout learning sessions.
When and where?
- Friday 30th January, 12.30 - 2.30pm
- Online
When and where?
- Wednesday 4th February, 6-7.30pm
- Scottish Parliament & Online
CPG on International Development
At the next Cross-Party Group on International Development, we expect to revisit the theme of ‘Global Partnerships and Locally-Led Approaches to Healthcare’, postponed from September 2025. Updates on speakers and the agenda will be posted on our website soon.
Palliative Care: coping and hope in the midst of conflict and change
This inspiring in-person event will dive deep into palliative care strategies that go beyond the usual. Expect insightful discussions, real stories, and fresh perspectives, including contributions from colleagues in Jordan, South Sudan, Ethiopia, Uganda, Gaza and Ukraine. This one-day conference is jointly presented by the Global Health Academy, University of Edinburgh, PallCHASE (Palliative Care in Humanitarian Aid Situations and Emergencies) and CairdeasIPCT.
When and where?
- Tuesday 10th February 3-4.15pm
Edinburgh International Conference Centre (EICC)
Scotland in a changing world: the role of Global Citizenship Education
Join us for our event at SCVO the Gathering, where we will be exploring how Global Citizenship Education can be a practical and powerful tool to tackle today’s challenges - from climate change and rising inequality to misinformation and social division. Spaces have quickly filled up, but you can join the waitlist to be notified if a space becomes available.
The State of International Trade, Finance, and Development
Join the Scottish Council for Global Affairs for a roundtable on today’s global political economy: trade regime strains, energy transition, UK trade strategy and what it means for Scotland. The panel features a range of speakers including SIDA’s CEO Frances Guy.
When and where?
- Thursday 12th February, 4.15-6pm
University of Strathclyde
When and where?
- Tuesday 17th February 10-12pm
Online
Workshop: How to talk about Climate
Join this interactive online workshop with SCCAN to explore how people really feel about climate change, how to frame climate conversations and climate action campaigns effectively, and how to navigate the divisions that often spark polarising debate. The session combines info-sharing, hands-on exercises, and group conversations so you’ll leave with practical skills to communicate climate in ways that connect, engage, and inspire action.
Brilliant Boards webinar
Join us and Harriet Dodd, Tophat Discovery CIC, with a wealth of experience with boards, including sitting on three herself, to learn more about how to navigate the distinction between governance and management. Harriet will talk us through the responsibilities of the board and how to work collaboratively to bring the best to the organisation as well as examples of poor and good practice. Please note this event is for SIDA members only.
When and where?
- Wednesday 18th February, 10-11.30am
Online
When and where?
- Wednesday 18th February, 10-4pm
Edinburgh Law School
Scottish Peace Platform | World Cafe networking event
The Scottish Peace Platform is hosting a World Café networking event, bringing together members and partners working across peacebuilding, policy, academia, and civil society for open, inclusive dialogue, reflection, and exchange. This is an opportunity for members and individuals to highlight their work and connect with others.
We Rise 2026 | Global Justice Now
We Rise is for anyone under 30 who believes that another world is possible. Join Global Justice Youth’s annual activist conference, We Rise, to learn from inspiring international speakers and meet likeminded people. With a range of panels, interactive workshops and creative sessions there’s something for everyone.
Climate, justice and global challenges: Scotland’s role in a changing world
Registration is now open for our 2026 Spring Conference where we'll explore how the accelerating climate emergency is shaping global justice and development practice. Through a keynote address, panel discussions and interactive workshops, the event will create space for shared learning, practical reflection and networking, focusing on Scotland’s role and responsibilities in an increasingly complex global context. Interested in becoming a sponsor or an exhibitor at the event? Find out more below.
Global Health: locally led development practices
Join us and a panel of our members working in a global health context including African Scottish Development Organisation, Cairdeas and The Scottish Government Health Coordination Unit, to discuss current global health issues including taking a locally led and collaborative approach to the work we deliver. Please note this event is for SIDA members only.
When and where?
- Wednesday 18th March, 10-11.30am
Online
SIDA members, this is your space! If you would like to feature in upcoming newsletters, please get in touch with us anytime at admin@intdevalliance.scot.
FUNDING UPDATE OF THE MONTH
International Climate Initiative Large Grants
The IKI Large Grants address current challenges in climate change mitigation, adaptation to the impacts of climate change and biodiversity conservation every year. Participation in the ideas competition of the ILG Call is open to international grant recipients. Grant size available: €12 – 20m per project, depending on the thematic and country priority. Apply by 17th February.
OTHER NEWS & RESOURCES
SIDA members, please check your profile on our website and let us know if you would like to make any changes to your profile or your internal contacts. As a reminder, your data will always be handled appropriately in line with our data protection policy.
Bylines Scotland Podcast | Frances Guy on international aid
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