Registration and the Call for Contributions for the ISSA Conference 2026 are now open. The conference will take place in Lisbon, Portugal, from 21 to 23 October 2026.
This global gathering will bring together policymakers, researchers, practitioners, civil society leaders, and advocates from across the globe to explore how stronger and more integrated early childhood systems can be built to place every child’s well-being at the centre.
Over two conference days (22–23 October), participants will come together to learn, collaborate, and shape solutions that strengthen early childhood systems across sectors. Pre-conference events are also planned for 21 October, with further details to be announced.
The conference will feature dynamic, interactive formats, including:
- Integration labs and policy–practice hackathons
- Experience-based dialogues and collaborative sessions
- Opportunities to co-create practical, actionable solutions that extend beyond the conference itself
Participants will examine how governance, financing, and cross-sector collaboration in health, education, social protection, and family support can better coordinate to support young children and their families.
Registration and Call for Contributions
The conference website now includes:
- Registration information, including early bird rates
- The Call for Contributions, inviting participants to share their work and help shape the programme
- Key conference dates and deadlines
- Practical information to support planning for participation in Lisbon
Please note that in-person capacity is limited, so early registration is recommended. Online participation options are also available.
Important dates
- Call for Contributions opens: 10 March 2026
- Submission deadline: 10 April 2026
- Early bird registration deadline: 31 July 2026
More information about the conference is available here.
The Learning for Well-being Institute is grateful for the opportunity to serve as a co-host of the ISSA Conference 2026 and contribute to this global exchange on strengthening early childhood systems.
