About the Concern Debates

The Concern Debates is Concern Worldwide’s flagship schools activity. It gives students the opportunity to research and debate issues that affect those living in the developing world.

By taking part, students learn the valuable skills of research and debating. The Concern Debates are 25 years old this year! In the competition’s 25 year history, over 45,000 students have engaged in the debates. Around 150 schools participate annually.

The Concern Debates aim to:

Promote a deeper awareness and understanding of global issues
Provide students with a public forum, to develop skills in research, presentation and debate
Encourage students and teachers to become lifelong advocates on issues relating to poverty, justice and human rights

Changes to the Debates

We're always trying to make the debates run smoother and make them more enjoyable for all involved, so we have made some changes to the way the League Phase is organised this year. We also simplified the marking sheet.