ATAF Launches the 2026 ATRN Fireside Chat Series with Public Lecture by Chair of the UN International Tax Negotiations
High-level public lecture builds momentum towards the 11th African Tax Research Network Congress in Kigali, Rwanda
Pretoria, South Africa | 26 June 2026 – The African Tax Administration Forum (ATAF) launched the 2026 African Tax Research Network (ATRN) Fireside Chat Series with a high-level public lecture delivered by H.E. Ramy Mohamed Youssef, Deputy Minister of Finance for Tax Policy and Reforms of the Arab Republic of Egypt and Chair of the United Nations Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee on the Framework Convention on International Tax Cooperation.
Delivered under the theme “The United Nations Framework Convention on International Tax Cooperation: Process, Progress, and the Road Ahead,” the lecture formed the first in a series of engagements leading to the 11th African Tax Research Network (ATRN) Congress, which will be held in Kigali, Rwanda, from 22–24 September 2026 under the theme “Contemporary Taxation Issues in Africa.”
In his lecture, H.E. Ramy Mohamed Youssef outlined the progress made in developing the United Nations Framework Convention on International Tax Cooperation and reflected on the evolution of the international tax system. He noted that while international tax rules have traditionally focused on preventing double taxation, current negotiations seek to establish a more inclusive framework capable of addressing the fair allocation of taxing rights in an increasingly digital and interconnected global economy, while supporting sustainable development.
Speaking during the event, ATAF Executive Secretary Ms Mary Baine emphasised the growing importance of research in informing both continental priorities and international tax discussions.
“The future of international tax cooperation will not be shaped by negotiations alone. It will also be shaped by the quality of research and evidence that informs those negotiations. Through the African Tax Research Network, ATAF is creating a platform where African scholarship contributes to African priorities and global tax policy.”
Chair of the ATRN Board and Director of the African Tax Institute, Prof. Annet Oguttu, called for greater involvement of African scholars in shaping international tax policy.
“African scholars should not merely observe international tax negotiations. They should help shape them by providing the research, technical expertise and policy analysis needed to advance Africa’s priorities.”
She noted that the African Tax Research Network continues to strengthen Africa’s tax research ecosystem by bringing together researchers, policymakers and tax administrators, while developing a growing repository of African tax scholars and experts to support future international tax cooperation.
Interest in this year’s ATRN Congress continues to grow, with approximately 190 research papers already received from researchers across Africa and beyond. Selected papers will be presented during the Congress, showcasing innovative research and practical solutions to strengthen tax policy, tax administration and domestic revenue mobilisation across the continent.
Since its establishment, ATRN has become one of Africa’s leading platforms for tax thought leadership, fostering collaboration between academia and tax administrations while promoting African-led research to inform tax policy and support stronger, more effective tax systems.
The 11th ATRN Congress will bring together researchers, tax administrators, policymakers, development partners and other stakeholders to discuss emerging tax issues, share evidence-based research and contribute to shaping the future of taxation in Africa.
End……
About The Author
