16th International Conference of National Trusts: Understanding the role and purpose of the Trust movement in the 21st Century

INTO, working closely with our partners, the National Trust and the University of Cambridge, is delighted to announce that the 16th International Conference of National Trusts will take place in Cambridge, UK, from 7-11 September 2015.

Since the establishment of the first ‘National Trust’ in 1895, the movement has grown to include a range of countries and INTO now has over sixty members from Australia to Zimbabwe!  Each is different, but each faces similar challenges and opportunities: increased pressure on land and landscapes, economic volatility and remaining relevant in an ever changing society.

“One-Hundred and twenty years after the establishment of the National Trust, the movement returns to the UK to draw on experience and lessons not only from our work here, but from across the world, and to develop new strategies and tools to combat the forces of globalisation, economic volatility and development that we face in the 21st Century, said Ben Cowell, National Trust Director of the East of England.

The colleges of Cambridge, one of the oldest universities in the world, offer an inspirational environment for the sharing of knowledge and experience. Conference events will be split across a range of venues, including the iconic King’s College.  Dramatically situated on the banks of the River Cam, its famous Chapel and grade one listed hall are two of the icons of Cambridge.

“Cambridge is a place of innovation, it’s a place where great minds meet and we’re looking forward to welcoming you to our beautiful city”, said Professor Jeremy Sanders, FRS, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Institutional Affairs, University of Cambridge.

Building on the success of the Ugandan ICNT’s ‘Learning Journeys’, a main feature of the programme is a series of themed workshops taking place at National Trust properties within striking distance of the city (Anglesey Abbey; Ickworth; Wicken Fen; Wimpole Hall and other sites).  A great opportunity to see behind the scenes at some amazing places whilst exploring the Conference Themes with colleagues from around the world.

For over 30 years, the National Trusts of the world have been coming together under the umbrella of the International Conference of National Trusts to share information and best practice, to develop solutions to common problems and to show solidarity with other members of the movement.

The Cambridge ICNT will examine in depth the role of National Trusts in the 21st Century whilst reaffirming the founding principles of INTO set out at the Edinburgh ICNT in 2003 and measuring how far we have come over the past twelve years.

More information about the conference, including registration details, will be available shortly.   To join our Cambridge ICNT mailing list, please contact the INTO Secretariat on secretariat@intoorg.org.

INTO was established in 2007 as a permanent focal point for the movement and is now the leading authority on the work of National Trusts worldwide and the issues affecting these community-based, non-governmental conservation organisations.