The IGU hosts a Regional Conference every four years usually held two years after the last Congress (although for a while they were more frequent). Regional Conferences are major IGU events, albeit usually smaller in scale than the Congress (and with no associated General Assembly) and are organized with a view to promoting the discipline within a particular region. The procedure for issuing an invitation to host a Regional Conference is much the same as that for a Congress and the acceptance of an invitation is also by vote of the General Assembly.
IGU Regional Conferences have been held recently as follows:
IGU Regional Conference: 2026: Istanbul, Türkiye
Istanbul University, located in the heart of Istanbul, Türkiye, is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the country. Its roots trace back to 1453, following the conquest of Constantinople, with the institution officially established in its modern form in 1933.
With a strong emphasis on academic excellence and research, Istanbul University offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs across various disciplines. The university consists of numerous faculties, including Medicine, Law, Science, Literature, Economics, Pharmacy, Dentistry, Political Science, and Communication, among others.
As a hub of innovation and intellectual development, Istanbul University hosts a vibrant academic community of more than 70,000 students and thousands of faculty members. It is also recognized for its contributions to science, culture, and public service both in Türkiye and internationally.
The university's main campus is located in Beyazıt, in Istanbul's historic peninsula, and is well-known for its iconic entrance gate and historic architecture. Istanbul University plays a leading role in fostering academic collaboration and cultural exchange, participating in numerous international programs and partnerships.
With a mission to generate and disseminate knowledge, promote critical thinking, and prepare students to become global citizens, Istanbul University continues to be a cornerstone of higher education in Türkiye.
