IPPR Scotland: 10th Anniversary Conference: Changing Scotland
Ten years ago, in the wake of the Scottish Independence referendum, there emerged a clear need for a think tank to support progressive policymaking and deepen public debate in both Holyrood and Westminster. It was a period of profound political and societal change marked by uncertainty, but also by opportunity. In response to this shifting landscape, IPPR Scotland was established in 2015.
A decade on, Scotland is once again at a crossroads with many looming long-term challenges. An ageing population, the escalating climate crisis and enduring fiscal pressures—exacerbated by sluggish growth and higher inflation—demand immediate attention.
With the 2026 Holyrood elections on the horizon, there is no better time than now to demand urgent progressive and radical change. How can we positively shape the national conversation? What needs to change to meet the future with confidence? Is there a credible fiscal path ahead?
In celebration of our tenth anniversary, IPPR Scotland is delighted to be hosting a daylong conference addressing these questions. We will be joined by senior politicians and policy experts for speeches and panels covering Scotland’s economy, net zero and more. Even if you have replied to our save the date, please register your interest in attending.
9:30 - 9:45: Welcome: Sally Magnusson, facilitator and Stephen Boyd, Director, IPPR Scotland
9:45 - 10:45: Can Scotland afford to be a better country?
Graeme Roy, Scottish Fiscal Commission
Sarah Davidson, Carnegie UK
Mairi Spowage Fraser of Allander Institute
Stephen Boyd, IPPR Scotland
10:45 - 11:15: Keynote
We will be joined by a senior Scottish Government Minister (to be announced)
11:15 - 11:30: Break and refreshments
11:30 - 12:30: How healthy is Scotland’s democracy?
Esther Roberton, Scotland Futures Forum
Willie Sullivan, Electoral Reform Society
Kezia Dugdale, Centre for Public Policy
Liz Lloyd, Specialist Partner, Political and Policy Adviser, Flint Global
12:30 - 13:00: Keynote speech
We are delighted to be joined by Anas Sarwar MSP, Leader of the Scottish Labour Party
13:00 - 14:00: Lunch
14.00-15.15: Breakout sessions
What is the strategy for Scotland’s economy?
David Waite, Glasgow University
Poonam Malik, Royal Society Edinburgh
Stuart Black, Highlands and Islands Enterprise
Francis Stuart, Scottish Trades Union Congress
Chair: Susan Murray, David Hume Institute
How distant is net zero?
Vicky Allan, Glasgow Herald
Sam Gardiner, Climate Emergency Response Group
Clare Wharmby, Co-director, Scottish Climate Intelligence Service
Laurie Macfarlane, Future Economy Scotland
Chair: Dave Hawkey, IPPR Scotland
Can Scotland meet its poverty targets?
Martin Johnstone, Poverty Truth Network
Brian Scott, Poverty Truth Community
Maria Marshall + parent, CPAG/Changing Realities
Chair: Sukhada Tatke, IPPR Scotland
15:15 - 15:45: Break and refreshments
15:45 - 16:00: Breakout feedback
We will hear from the chairs of each breakout session about the discussions held and key takeaways.
16.00-16.50: MSP Panel
We will be joined by representatives of all the main parties in Holyrood.
16:50 - 17:00: Conclusion and close