On the 14^th and 15^th February 2019, the Curbing IFFs research project hosted an international research workshop at the Graduate Institute, in Geneva. The two-day event involved our research teams from Ghana, Laos and Switzerland presenting their preliminary research findings and discussing next steps with our Advisory Group. The workshop also included an expert panel discussion attended by stakeholders from international Geneva, as well as a site visit from our supporting review panel experts from the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNF)’s R4D.ch program.

The expert public panel discussion event was held on the evening of the 14th February. With academic and policy experts from the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA), The International Centre for Tax and Development (ICTD) and the University of Geneva, there was a wealth of information shared. Each of the speakers brought a unique perspective on the following topics: Bartholomew Armah (UNECA) spoke on the opportunities for and challenges of “Funding the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development”. Following this, Sol Picciotto (ICTD) brought insights on “Taxation Challenges for Developing Countries”. Claire Naval (OECD) then discussed the topic of “Increasing Revenue Contributions from Extractives Sector”. From the University of Geneva, Xavier Oberson expanded upon the “Policy Implications for Switzerland”. There were around 70 people in attendance at the event, and the talks from the panelists were followed by an engaging question and answer session.

Overall, our workshop was a great success in allowing us to critically discuss our research methodologies and preliminary findings, while also helping us identify areas for improvement and further reflections. Advisors also shared their invaluable insights and support for further academic research and policy engagements. Our preliminary working papers can be found by clicking here. The invaluable feedback and support provided by our Advisory Group members will help focus our project moving forward till the end of our first phase in 2020.