Connecting the next generation of Commonwealth leaders

Study tomorrow's problems with tomorrow's leaders and shape the future together

HRH Princess Royal meeting delegates at a conference

The purpose of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Commonwealth Study Conferences is to inspire and build a cadre of rising talent from a cross section of global business, unions, civil service, civil society, and the not-for-profit sectors by bringing them together to study a common problem, but with the benefit of immersive case studies and diverse perspectives. The shared experience creates a global fellowship of better-informed and better-connected leaders, whose potential is so much greater together.

Next year will be the 70th year since Prince Philip inaugural conference founded it and to celebrate we have ambitious plans for a UK Conference in April 2026 with an optional visit to Kenya in the Autumn.

About us

A unique heritage with innovation at its core

OUR LEADERSHIP

HRH The Princess Royal

President of The Duke of Edinburgh's Commonwealth Study Conference

Sir Alan Parker CVO

Chair of The Duke of Edinburgh's Commonwealth Study Conference

Mr Peter Flavel

Vice-Chair of The Duke of Edinbrugh's Commonwealth Study Conference

Ms Ladi Dariya

Treasurer of The Duke of Edinburgh's Commonwealth Study Conference

Mr David McCredie AM OBE

Executive Director 2026 Conference

The Commonwealth Study Conference was founded in 1956 by Prince Philip to explore the intersection of business success and community development. Inspired by a visit to Canada where he observed the unique challenges of single-industry towns, he envisioned a forum where emerging leaders from diverse backgrounds could examine complex social and economic issues together through immersive experiences and open dialogue.

Since its inception, CSC has brought together over 8,000 leaders from across the Commonwealth, equipping them with the insights, networks, and global perspectives needed to drive meaningful change. The unique study group model, which combines plenary sessions with on-the-ground visits to industrial and community sites, enables participants to deeply engage with real-world challenges.

The impact of CSC is profound, with alumni applying their experiences to influence policy, strengthen communities, and foster international cooperation. Delegates gain a sense of purpose and a global network of peers committed to shaping a more inclusive and prosperous future. As CSC continues to evolve, it remains dedicated to its founding mission: bringing together diverse perspectives to explore the human dimensions of leadership, industry, and society.

What makes CSC different?

A unique and impactful learning model

A diverse talent mix

An enduring and connected alumni of next generation leaders

THEME FOR 2026

The impact of emerging technologies on cities of the future

At the heart of every Commonwealth Study Conference is a major issue created by industry which requires deep interrogation, diverse perspectives and learning opportunities.

The rise of Artificial Intelligence is one of the biggest challenges and opportunities facing the Commonwealth. We have therefore chosen to dedicate the next conference to focus on this topic.

Programme

2026 Indicative Programme

DATES

LOCATIONS

DETAILS

Opening

8th – 10th April

Oxford, UK

Opening in Oxford the delegates will meet and be addressed by leading business, political and social figures to set the stage for their conference experience. TBC Opening speech by William Hague, Chancellor of the University of Oxford.

Regional study tours

10th – 14th April

Belfast, Cardiff, Manchester & Edinburgh, UK

Delegates will be assigned to 10 “Study Groups.” Each group will travel to different regions of the UK and will be immersed in a programme of experiences which bring new and unexpected perspectives to the conference theme.

Closing

15th – 16th April

London, UK

Convening in London, the study groups will prepare and present their findings in a two-day closing plenary, highlighting their experiences and how they will apply their new knowledge to their organisations and communities around the Commonwealth. The Conference will conclude with a reception with HRH The Princess Royal.

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HRH Princess Royal meeting delegates

Support us

Inspiring the next generation of leaders

The Duke of Edinburgh Commonwealth Study Conferences UK requires the energy and support of a dedicated group of directors, advisory committees, donors, sponsoring organisations, alumni and volunteers.

We are looking for organisations to partner with us to help shape, deliver and finance the 2026 conference. We want to harness the perspectives, expertise and energy of our network to turbocharge these efforts – to bring fresh thinking to the programmes we are planning and to help us identify the highest and most diverse calibre of potential candidates, speakers and case studies.