Following on from the 36th International Epilepsy Congress in Lisbon, we extend our heartfelt thanks to all who contributed to its outstanding success. This year’s Congress brought together the global epilepsy community—leading clinicians, researchers, educators, advocates, and industry partners—united by a shared commitment to improving the lives of people affected by epilepsy. With over 4400 participants from 120 countries, the Congress was a truly international gathering, filled with energy, insight, and collaboration.

 

Over 130 scientific sessions showcased cutting-edge research, clinical advances, and innovative practices across all aspects of epilepsy. From thought-provoking keynote lectures and hands-on teaching courses to state-of-the-art platform sessions and lively poster presentations, every element of the programme was designed to inform, inspire, and connect. Key topics included basic and clinical science, neurophysiology, neuroimaging, pharmacological and surgical therapies, genetics, AI and digital health, and the psychosocial aspects of epilepsy care.

More than 1100 abstracts were presented through both platform and poster sessions. Poster presentations were available across the full three days of the Congress—an approach that continued to encourage vibrant discussions, knowledge exchange, and international networking among delegates. The latest multidisciplinary research presented at the platform sessions will help shape the future of epilepsy care.

A particular highlight of this year’s Congress was the meaningful involvement of people with lived experience of epilepsy. Patient and Public Involvement (PPI) was the topic of the Presidential symposium, and the inclusion of in people with lived experience in many sessions brought authentic voices and valuable perspectives to the forefront, enriching scientific dialogue and reminding us all, of the human impact of our work. People with epilepsy, caregivers, and advocates contributed to panel discussions, shared their stories, and provided critical insights that helped bridge the gap between research, clinical practice, and lived experience. This commitment to PPI reflects ILAE’s and IBE’s ongoing shared dedication to inclusive, person-centred approaches to epilepsy care and research. We are grateful to every individual who shared their journey and their caregivers who accompanied them and helped make the Congress more impactful and empathetic.

 

We hope that the diverse programme delivered at the IEC meant that every attendee found sessions that were relevant, engaging, and impactful; we must now put our knowledge and the new opportunities into practice, and we encourage you to keep us informed through both the ILAE and IBE.

During the Welcome Ceremony on 31 August several prestigious ILAE and IBE awards were presented and acknowledged in recognition of excellence and leadership in the field. These individuals exemplify the excellence, innovation, and dedication that drive our field forward. We congratulate each of them on this well-deserved recognition. More information can be found here.

We are especially grateful to our expert speakers, session chairs, and moderators, whose contributions were instrumental in delivering a high-quality scientific programme. We also extend our sincere appreciation to the Scientific Organising Committee, ILAE and IBE staff, CCL Venue staff and the local team, whose dedication and behind-the-scenes work ensured a seamless and enriching experience for all.

We are deeply thankful to our sponsors and partners for their continued support and their commitment to advancing epilepsy research, education, and care.

As we reflect on a successful Congress, we look ahead with excitement to future collaborations and continued progress. We invite you to join us at the 37th International Epilepsy Congress, to be held in Amsterdam, Netherlands in 2027.

Thank you once again for your enthusiastic participation, your invaluable contributions, and your continued commitment to our shared mission—to advance epilepsy care and ensure no life is limited by epilepsy.

J Helen Cross and Francesca Sofia

 

SCIENTIFIC & ORGANISING COMMITTEE

Co-Chairs		Members:
J Helen Cross President ILAE (United Kingdom)	Francesca Sofia President IBE (Italy)	Ghaieb Mohamed Aljandeel (Iraq) Melody Asukile (Zambia) Carla Bentes (Portugal) Arthur Cukiert (Brazil) Aristea Galanopoulou (USA) Ching Soong Khoo (Malaysia) Alison Kukla (USA) Genevieve Rayner (Australia) Graeme Shears (Australia) Gagandeep Singh (India) Elvira Vacas Montero (Spain) Elaine Wirrell (USA)

Please check here regularly as we continue to provide updates and relevant information about the congress. If you have any queries, please contact iec@epilepsycongress.org.

***Please beware of unauthorised agencies***

Please do not engage with unofficial companies claiming to sell registrations, accommodation or other services on behalf of the congress.

There is no official accommodation agency for this congress.

 

_{ILAE Secretariat Limited (ILAE Sec Ltd) is a limited for-profit company registered in the Republic of Ireland (Company Number 654193, VAT Number IE3655587UH). ILAE Sec Ltd. is solely owned by the International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE) which is incorporated in the United States as a nonprofit, tax exempt 501(c)(3) organization, tax ID 52-1298610. ILAE Sec Ltd. has been granted an exclusive license by the ILAE to organize all ILAE events including congresses.}