In sunlit courtyards and strategy-driven sessions,we brought together staff and shareholders to reflect and recalibrate in Berlin last week.
Over four full days,fuelled by strong coffee and stronger convictions,our 2025 Annual Meeting created space for candid conversations about how we work and what comes next. We began by revisiting what we have achieved together already. From 275 events across more than 20 countries to over 6,260 participants and nearly 70 publications,2024 was a year of ambitious reach. Therefore,the very first presentation on success rate trends,MEL outputs and prospects laid the groundwork for thoughtful group reflections.
Momentum built quickly as we moved into one of the most dynamic parts of the week: our working group sessions. Teams rotated between strategy huddles on KPIs and impact storytelling,exercises to refine our thematic approaches,and pointed discussions on resource efficiency. One moment we were debating AI tools,the next,we were reflecting on how to communicate impartiality in an increasingly polarised world. The sessions felt high-level yet stayed hands-on for everyone in the room.
The advocacy session particularly stood out for its engaging format. With a “Stand in this coer if…” icebreaker,colleagues reflected on how they see DRI’s advocacy role: whether as a behind-the-scenes influencer,coalition-builder or an evidence-led expert. The session also prompted lively discussion around how we sharpen our policy influence while remaining grounded in evidence and aligned with our values. Another lively exercise on non-partisan messaging pushed the conversation further: What exactly makes a message partisan? The insights came freely as participants debated fiercely but with an ultimate sense of shared direction.
Later in the week,goveance sessions brought strategic alignment into focus. Board members and shareholders reviewed DRI’s financial outlook,considered the implications of shrinking civic space,and explored how we continue to position ourselves. The final day carried momentum through to a strong close,as team leads and country representatives shared programme highlights and the shareholders got their first preview of the redesigned website – another step in strengthening DRI’s visibility.
True to DRI’s spirit,we also made time to celebrate,whether it was by honouring 15 years of service by one long-standing colleague or appreciating the behind-the-scenes efforts from HR colleagues that made the meeting possible. During these working lunches and well-deserved Biergarten lounging,we definitely made sure to make time to reconnect,laugh and reaffirm the strength of this community.
In short,the Annual Meeting didn’t conclude with one single resolution,but with many: a renewed commitment to our values,clearer language around our impact,sharper strategies across teams,and a better understanding of where we’re heading – until next year.
