and Excellence in Debate
Promoting Dialogue, Diversity, and Excellence in Debate
Our Vision
Our vision is a world where young leaders are equipped not only with academic knowledge but also with the essential skills to address and navigate complex global challenges.
By helping students overcome barriers of geography and legacy, we empower them to compete on the world stage and prepare for impactful leadership in a connected world.
Our Mission
At IDC, our mission is to empower young minds through the transformative art of debate, fostering open-mindedness, empathy, and a commitment to positive change.
We provide a platform where students confidently express diverse perspectives, challenge ideas, and build bridges across cultures, nurturing a global community.
We see debate as a tool for peace, understanding, and ethical leadership
Our Story
Founded in 2020 by Georgia Chahoud in partnership with the Sydney Debating League, the International Debating Championships (IDC) has swiftly evolved into a respected, independent international championship. Our journey has been marked by passion, commitment, and a profound impact in the debating community.
We take pride in offering a valuable platform where schools and institutions can engage with new cohorts of debaters beyond the confines of earlier tournaments in the year and cities, and expand their competitive horizons. As a pioneer in online debating, IDC now attracts over 260 teams annually, primarily from the Australasian and Asia-Pacific regions, while reaching across continents to include participants from Africa and the Middle East.
With a dedicated focus on the Australasian and Asia-Pacific regions, IDC is committed to innovation and excellence within the debate and public speaking industry. We have introduced pioneering initiatives that reshape the debate landscape and set new standards.
At IDC, we embrace diversity and inclusivity, welcoming students from all backgrounds into a supportive, collaborative environment that fosters growth, mutual respect, and a sense of global community.
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Global Schools
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Worldwide Teams
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Participants
IDC Core Value
Our Values Define Our Approach to Debating and Learning
Inclusivity
IDC is committed to representing voices from diverse cultures, backgrounds, and viewpoints. We celebrate diversity by creating a welcoming environment where all participants, regardless of nationality or background, are encouraged to share their unique perspectives. Our platform fosters mutual understanding and appreciation, empowering students from varied experiences to learn and grow together.
Respect
We believe in respectful discourse that challenges ideas while honoring individuals. IDC values the importance of respect in all interactions. By upholding a culture of respectful debate, we encourage participants to engage in discussions that challenge viewpoints constructively. This fosters an environment where ideas can be questioned without compromising personal dignity, building a foundation for lifelong respectful communication.
Excellence
IDC upholds the highest standards in debate, organization, and participant support. We are dedicated to providing a first-class debating experience that emphasizes rigorous preparation, informed adjudication, and impactful feedback. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in the quality of our distinguished adjudicators and coaches, who are experienced university debaters and championship winners, ensuring participants benefit from world-class guidance.
Collaboration
Our platform is built on the spirit of collaboration, where students learn as much from each other as they do from the topics discussed. IDC emphasizes the value of teamwork and collective growth. By promoting collaborative learning, we encourage participants to exchange ideas and strategies, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose that extends beyond the competition itself.
Empowerment
We believe in empowering students to find their voices, express their ideas, and make a difference in the world. IDC equips students with the skills to become effective communicators and advocates. By providing a supportive and dynamic platform, we help students build confidence and cultivate their unique voices, enabling them to address real-world issues with clarity and conviction.
Impact
We strive to make a positive and lasting impact on our students’ lives as well as the wider community. At IDC, our goal is not only to foster skilled debaters but also to nurture future leaders. Through insightful feedback and transformative experiences, we aim to create a ripple effect where participants carry the skills they’ve gained into their communities, promoting critical thinking and open dialogue in their own lives.