Location Update for the 2026 BIEN Congress

We would like to share an important update regarding the location of the 2026 BIEN Congress.

Following a review of international travel conditions and visa accessibility for participants, a decision has reluctantly been reached to relocate the 2026 BIEN Congress from University of Pennsylvania, USA, to Toronto Metropolitan University Toronto, Canada. This decision was taken in light of challenging political circumstances in the US, to support broad international participation and to reduce uncertainty for attendees travelling from a wide range of countries.

The Congress will now take place at Toronto Metropolitan University from 19–22 August 2026, instead of 27-29 of July as previously planned.

Updated Congress details

• Dates:  19–22 August 2026 (Canada day pre-Congress taking place on August 19, Global agenda commencing August 20)
  
• Host institution: Toronto Metropolitan University
  
• Location: Toronto, Ontario, Canada
  
• Theme: Basic Income and the Polycrisis: The Key to Unlocking the Puzzle
  

The previously announced event at the University of Pennsylvania (27–29 July 2026) will not proceed.

Canada offers a more predictable and accessible entry environment for many international participants, helping to ensure that the Congress remains inclusive and representative of BIEN’s global membership. We are grateful to our colleagues in Canada for their willingness to host the Congress and for their flexibility in accommodating this change, and to our US colleagues for putting so much work into making this year’s congress happen. We note with great appreciation that the University of Pennsylvania team will continue sponsoring the Congress and form part of its Scientific Committee.

Further information regarding registration, calls for papers, accommodation, and travel guidance will be shared in due course.

We appreciate the understanding of the BIEN community and look forward to welcoming delegates to Toronto in August 2026.