IDEA Annual Conference 2026

Education for Liberation: GCE in an Age of Crisis


Date: Wednesday, 24 June,  10.00am - 5.30pm

Location:  The Grand Hotel Malahide, K36XT6



Education for Liberation: GCE in an age of Crisis  


Download the full Conference Programme here


We are living in an era of multi-crises. Democratic norms are under threat, racism and ethno-nationalism are resurging, and the space for critical thought and civic participation is narrowing. 

 The scale of the challenges we are facing can be overwhelming, with many of us wondering what the role is for educators and how can we respond in a meaningful way? 


This year, IDEA's Annual Conference will take us back to our roots while also looking forward to renewed purpose. Drawing on the radical traditions of Development Education and the legacy of Paulo Freire and other educators, we will be exploring the foundations of education for liberation in the context of our world today. 

The conference programme will bring these ideas to life through a diverse range of voices, experiences, and active participation from attendees. Participants will hear a message from Brazilian education leader Madza Ednir and a keynote address from Ukrainian educator Zoryana Pshyk, alongside the panel conversation, Voices for Liberation: Perspectives on Education in an Age of Crisis. The programme will feature music by Palestinian musician Aziz Abushark, a special conversation on love and radical hope with award-winning journalist and author Sally Hayden, and a closing ceremony with contributions from Aziz Abushark and Nima Ashour, with the Blanket for Palestine. 


Lunch and refreshments will be provided throughout the day, creating additional opportunities for conversation, reflection, and connection. 


Interactive workshops will provide opportunities to explore liberating approaches to Global Citizenship Education in practice. Sessions include Using Drama Methodologies to Facilitate Liberating GCE; Nurturing Educator Reflexivity through Gestalt Theatre; Who in this World Has Access to Pleasure? Emotion and Motivation: Capturing Energy - The Genius of Freire; From Conscientisation to Collective Action: Freirean Dialogues Across Africa and the Diaspora; and South African Singing with African Queens. 

We will also host a member social gathering afterwards for those who wish to continue the discussions informally. 


Join us to discuss how Global Citizenship Education can build critical consciousness, nurture human solidarity, and strengthen grassroots action in these turbulent times. 

Book now to secure your place. (Waiting list will open if fully booked) 


Any queries – please email events@ideaonline.ie 


Find out more here

July 30, 2026
IDEA is seeking an experienced Communications Manager to lead our strategic communications and public engagement work. IDEA is the national network for Development/Global Citizenship Education (GCE) in Ireland. We work with over 100 member organisations and individuals to strengthen the sector through collaboration, professional learning, research, policy engagement and advocacy. Development Education /Global Citizenship Education enables people to understand the world around them, think critically about global justice and sustainability, and take informed action to help create a more just and sustainable future. Reporting to the CEO, the Communications Manager will lead the development and delivery of IDEA's communications strategy, strengthen engagement with members and partners, raise the profile of IDEA, its members and the Global Citizenship Education sector, and communicate the value and impact of their work to a wide range of audiences. Key Responsibilities The successful candidate will: Lead IDEA's strategic communications and public engagement work. Develop and deliver communications strategies and annual communications plans. Raise the profile of IDEA, its members and the wider Global Citizenship Education sector. Communicate the impact of IDEA's work and showcase the work, learning and impact of members. Lead digital communications, media relations and organisational communications. Build relationships with members, partners, policymakers, media and other stakeholders. Salary and Benefits Salary: €49,522 - €55,737 per annum, depending on experience Full-time, one-year fixed-term contract. IDEA intends this to be an ongoing role, with the opportunity for the position to become permanent, subject to funding. May consider 4 day arrangement. Applications from candidates seeking a four-day working week will be considered 6.5% employer contribution to a contributory pension scheme Hybrid working arrangements (Dublin city centre office) Opportunities for professional development About You You'll bring: At least five years' relevant communications experience Experience developing and delivering communications strategies Excellent writing, editing and storytelling skills Experience managing digital communications, websites and social media Strong stakeholder engagement and project management skills An understanding of, or interest in, Global Citizenship Education, education, international development or the wider not-for-profit sector. How to Apply Please read the Job Description and Application Information PDF before applying. It contains the full role description, person specification, terms and conditions and application instructions. Applications should include: A current CV. A cover letter (maximum two pages). Email applications to recruitment@ideaonline.ie with the subject line Communications role. The deadline for applications is Thursday 17 September, 9.00am (Irish time).
July 17, 2026
Applications should be submitted online to recruitment@ideaonline.ie by Thursday, 13 August, 9.00am.
July 10, 2026
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