Though it has since grown into a research and evaluation institute, Groupe URD began its life as a forum where the issues facing humanitarian aid and development could be debated. It is still an essential part of our work to encourage debate and the airing of new ideas and to encourage actors to share their experiences with a view to improving practices.

Too often, one-day international conferences do not allow complex issues to be dealt with in any depth. Groupe URD therefore organises an annual conference, the Autumn School on Humanitarian Aid, which lasts two and a half days. On the first day, there is an initial exploration of the theme via a series of presentations. On the second day, participants take part in workshops to analyse different aspects of the theme. And the final morning is generally an opportunity to look ahead and make proposals for the future. The event is organised in such a way as to facilitate the active participation of all those present, thus encouraging debate and reflection.

This event takes place every year in the second half of September. The provisional programme, a presentation of the theme and registration forms can be found online roughly two months before.

- 2006: Humanitarian space in danger
- 2005: Accreditation: a threat or an opportunity for humanitarian agencies?
- 2004: Linking relief and development – what's new ?
- 2003: Humanitarian aid after 9/11