Chris Carr’s Reflections on the IoR Annual Conference 2026
In this report, Chris Carr, Policy and Regulation Specialist, shares his reflections on the Institute of Regulation Annual Conference 2026, capturing the key themes and discussions from the day. Centred on Advancing Regulation Together, the conference explored how regulation must evolve to remain effective, trusted and responsive in an increasingly complex environment.
Chris highlights calls for a stronger focus on outcomes rather than process, with speakers questioning whether current approaches to regulation are delivering real impact. The importance of trust and credibility also featured heavily, with emphasis on transparency, fairness and clearer communication around risk and trade offs.
Innovation and collaboration were recurring themes, with sessions showcasing the role of AI, open innovation and regulatory sandboxes in supporting more agile approaches. Discussions also stressed the need for better coordination between regulators and stronger relationships with those being regulated.
The report also reflects on the role of leadership and organisational culture, underlining the importance of skills, diversity of thinking and clear purpose in driving effective regulation.
Overall, Chris presents a concise and insightful overview of a conference that reinforced the need for a more joined up, forward looking and outcomes focused regulatory system.
