Reclaiming Industrial Policy for the People

On 28–29 August 2025 in Johannesburg, the TIDE Centre, together with Trade and Industrial Policy Strategies (TIPS) ) and the Transnational Institute (TNI), convened the Reclaiming Industrial Policy for the People conference. The gathering brought together over 45 civil society leaders, researchers, and activists from 22 countries and 33 organisations, making it the first international forum focused specifically on civil society’s role in shaping industrial policy.

 

Despite their critical contributions to development outcomes, civil society actors are often excluded from industrial policy processes. This convening addressed that gap, creating a space for dialogue, collaboration, and strategic exchange across sectors and geographies. Discussions explored how civil society can participate meaningfully in the design, implementation, and monitoring of industrial policies.

The strong commitment from participants to sustain this dialogue reflects both the demand for inclusive spaces and a shared recognition that green transformation cannot succeed without broader societal participation.