This event explored whether biofuels be more costly than fossil fuels. Discussion built upon a review of the evidence and arguments on likely developments in landed prices of biofuels in the UK/EU up to 2020; and explored the implications of sourcing biofuels from outside the EU.

The event explored how international humanitarian and military actors understand and put into practice the concept of the protection of civilians. The roundtable brought together key international military and humanitarian actors to explore their respective objectives, rationale and approaches to the protection of civilians.  The discussion also examined the specific roles and responsibilities that each have in supporting enhanced protection of civilian populations.

With global risks on the increase, effective development policy depends on a good understanding of the impact of global shocks on low income countries and the most effective policy responses. At this roundtable event, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) presented findings of their first comprehensive 'Vulnerability Exercise' for Low-Income Countries (VE-LIC). This was followed by a discussion involving ODI researchers, academics and development practitioners.

Ahead of Busan, this session examined some of the more recent innovations in policy design and implementation of budget support style operations. Specifically, the European Commission’s variable tranches and MDG-contracts, the World Bank’s proposed Program for Results (P4R), and the Center for Global Development’s Cash on Delivery proposal.