LAHORE: The Centre for Research in Economics and Business (CREB) and the Innovation and Technology Centre (ITC) at the Lahore School of Economics opened their 8th International Conference on Applied Development Economics (ADE) as an in-person event in Lahore, in collaboration with the International Growth Centre and the Consortium for Development Policy Research.
The three-day conference, held from 17–19 August 2026, brings together international and local researchers examining development issues in low- and middle-income countries. Its key themes include shocks and educational opportunities, gender and economic outcomes, behavioral responses to conflict and crime, governance and institutional reform, gender and labor markets, and responses to information and climate change.
The conference aims to showcase policy-relevant research for sustainable development, support early-career researchers through constructive feedback, and promote scholarly exchange and potential research collaborations.
Dr Shahid Chaudhry, Rector of the Lahore School of Economics, in his inaugural remarks observed that Pakistan’s economic policies are deeply shaped by national development concerns which necessitate high government spending. At the same time repeated stabilisation measures—including exchange-rate adjustments, privatisation, and liberalisation—have substantially transformed the economy and contributed to rising poverty.
In the social sector, efforts to establish state-led healthcare and social protection—illustrate both the challenges and opportunities involved in strengthening public welfare systems. In this context, forums such as ADE are important platforms for examining Pakistan’s economic and social challenges and exploring possible pathways toward more inclusive and sustainable development.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2026
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