More than a Conference
Over the past eight years we have run a series of International Economics of Happiness Conferences, with the aim of critically examining the global economy, exploring strategies for systemic change, and sharing local steps to a future that works for people and planet. This year, our 21st Economics of Happiness Conference was hosted in Ladakh – the place where Local Futures first began its work.
This event was co-hosted with Local Futures, the NGO JULAY LADAKH, the Central Institute of Buddhist Studies (CIBS) (Deemed to be University), The Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council, Leh District, and Himalayan Film House.
Catalysing Positive Change
The two-day event looked at different notions of ‘progress’, and discussed the need for compassionate economics – an ‘economics of happiness’ – and what we can do to achieve it.
We looked at the many examples of people working to build vibrant local economies – both around the world and in Ladakh itself.
Inspiring Speakers
The event brought together inspiring visionaries and change-makers from Ladakh, India and abroad.
Satish Kumar, UK
Stanzin Dorjai Gya, Ladakh
Rebecca Martusewicz, USA
Manish Jain, Udaipur, India
Keibo Oiwa, Japan
Anja Lyngbaek, Denmark/Mexico
Tsering Stobdan, Ladakh
Gloria Germani, Italy
The International Economics of Happiness Conference Series
The Series began in 2012, and since then, we have organised 20 gatherings – ranging in size from 100 to over 1,000 people – in seven countries: the US, UK, Australia, Italy, India, South Korea and Japan.
Participants at these conferences have described them as "an antidote to anger and despair," and as "an inspirational way to light the fuse for a new economy."
Core Themes
We considered strategies that would strengthen and renew Ladakh's local economy and food systems, and thereby address the region's most serious problems. Among the topics covered were:
Learn About Localisation
Across the world, people are coming to realise that today’s crises are inextricably linked to a global economy addicted to growth and dependent on rampant consumerism.
We believe that economic localisation is the most systemic and effective alternative.
On this page you can find a detailed PDF and a short animation explaining the benefits of localisation.