Vision & strategy - Institute of Development Studies (original) (raw)

Our vision is for just economies and societies that balance the needs of people and the planet, built through shared understanding and collective action.

Aerial photo of a line of camels walking through the desert, with long shadows. Text at the bottom left says, "IDS Strategy 2026-35: Knowledge and solidarity for a just world"

Strategy 2026 – 35

Read the strategy now

Our mission

Through world-leading research, teaching and evidence-based policy engagement, we will forge partnerships with like-minded allies to sustain the planet, support shared prosperity, safeguard human rights and democracy, protect the most vulnerable, and train a new generation of leaders.

The impacts we seek

Impact One: Transforming knowledge to improve lives

Impact Two: Mobilising new leadership for economic equality, social justice and environmental sustainability

Impact Three: Shaping policies and practices through research, learning, and engagement with decision-makers

Our Strategic Commitments

  1. We will co-create robust evidence that leads to societal change
  2. We will nurture the next generation of leaders who share our values through our teaching and learning
  3. We will build and deepen partnerships and networks, grounded in common purpose and underpinned by equitable practices
  4. We will provide sanctuary and solidarity for partners and allies who are working in restricted environments
  5. We will prioritise adaptability, both in terms of our research as well as how we operate as a sustainable institution

Read our 2026 – 35 strategy Knowledge and solidarity for a just world, to find out how our work is contributing to a better future.

Watch our Director Anuradha Joshi introduce the strategy.