About 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.

Schedule

9:30 - 9:45: Welcome
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 Robertson, Constitutional Convention
  • Willie Sullivan, Electoral Reform Society
  • Kezia Dugdale, Centre for Public Policy
  • Liz Lloyd, independent political consultant
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
  • Chair: Susan Murray, David Hume Institute


How distant is net zero? 

  • Vicky Allan, Glasgow Herald
  • Representative, Climate Emergency Response Group
  • 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