Women in hard hats

NRGI at 20

Transforming resource governance for a new era

NRGI marks its twentieth anniversary at a moment of paradox. Oil, gas and mining dominate markets and political agendas, yet governance is too often sidelined. Decisions about resources continue to shape development, democracy and climate outcomes, even as investment in accountability and reform faces growing pressure.

This anniversary year is more than a milestone. It is an opportunity to draw on two decades of collective learning and transform resource governance for a new era. Throughout 2026, we will convene thematic explorations, reflections and conversations to examine what has worked, what has not and what must change as we look toward 2050. 

20 years of NRGI: an interactive timeline

 

 

Governing Board Chair Gilbert F. Houngbo on NRGI at 20

2026 anniversary initiatives

As part of NRGI’s 20th anniversary, we will launch a series of initiatives highlighting the people, ideas and innovations shaping the future of resource governance. Bookmark this page, sign up for our email newsletter, or follow us on social media to make sure you don’t miss them.

Future of Governance

Provocative thought pieces from experts, reformers and partners on what the next era of resource governance will require. Learn more →

20 Voices

A series of interviews, Q&As and reflections from leaders, reformers and partners who have shaped the field.

NRGI Changemaker Award

A special anniversary award recognizing leaders driving real change in natural resource governance. Learn more →

Through Our Eyes

A crowd-sourced visual storytelling initiative capturing how communities experience resource governance where it happens. Learn more →

Stay up to date

Across our 20th anniversary year NRGI will be sharing updates about our work and our vision for the future. Sign up to our newsletter to find out about all this exciting work.