International Conferences

Our Commitment

IF organises conferences and professional learning opportunities to bring together individuals with Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus (SBH), families, healthcare professionals, researchers, and policymakers from around the world. These events provide spaces to exchange knowledge, share best practices, and strengthen international collaboration.

Biennial International Conference

IF hosts a biennial International Conference, gathering participants from across the globe. This event highlights multidisciplinary care, advocacy, research, and community-led initiatives, and provides opportunities to learn from experiences in different countries.

The next International Conference is planned for 2026, October 15-17 in Montreal Canada. See the conference website here: www.sbhconference2026.com/en/

Past conferences have taken place in different parts of the world, reflecting IF’s commitment to a truly global dialogue on SBH:

• 2024: The 30th International Conference on SBH “Bridging Gaps Together”, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
• 2022: The 29th International Conference on SBH “Diverse Needs, Same Rights”, virtual
• 2021: The International Federation Conference on Multidisciplinary Care for SBH, virtual
• 2018: The 28th International Conference on SBH “Making the Invisible Visible”, New Delhi, India
• 2016: The 27th International Conference on SBH “Turning Points”, Ghent, Belgium
• 2015: The 26th International Conference on SBH “Equality”, Le Robinie, Italy
• 2014: The 25th International Conference on SBH “GENErating Changes”- “Toward a new scientific and social paradigm”, Derqui, Pilar, Buenos Aires Province
• 2013: The 24th International Conference on SBH “Unite & Share”, Izmir, Turkey
• 2012: The 23th International Conference on SBH, Stockholm, Sweden
• 2011: Conference in Guatemala City, Guatemala (with AGEB)
• 2010: Conference in Dublin, Ireland (with SBHI)
• 2009: Conference in Orlando, USA (with SBA)
• 2008: Conference in Lisbon, Portugal (with ASBIH)
• …
• 1979: Conference in Stockholm, Sweden “The family situation”

Thematic Regional Conferences

In addition to the biennial International Conference, IF organises thematic and regional conferences as needs arise. These events focus on specific topics such as:

• Multidisciplinary care and transition from paediatric to adult services
• Advocacy, rights, and inclusion
• Education and community support
• Research, innovation, and clinical best practices

Thematic conferences are scheduled based on member needs, priorities, and opportunities
for collaboration, ensuring they are relevant and impactful.

Grand Rounds for Clinicians

To support continuous professional development, IF facilitates Grand Rounds for healthcare professionals. These online sessions provide a forum to:

• Share clinical expertise and best practices
• Discuss challenging cases and emerging treatments
• Connect with colleagues worldwide

Ongoing Opportunities & Resources

IF ensures that all members can participate and benefit from our conferences, whether in-person or online. Members also have access to:

• Conference recordings and materials
• Webinars and interactive sessions
• Toolkits and guidance documents developed from conference discussions

These resources allow members to apply learning directly in their communities and maintain connections with the international SBH network year-round. Do you seek something in particular? Don’t hesitate to be in touch.