The International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP) is delighted to announce that Colombo, Sri Lanka, has been selected as the host city for the IASP 34th World Congress in 2027. Venue details and dates will be confirmed in the new year.
Following a global call for nominations launched in June, IASP received 13 submissions from National Representatives and members from around the world by the deadline of 10 August. These nominations underwent an initial review by the Central Office Leadership Team, which assessed each proposal and shared recommendations with a Board subcommittee. The subcommittee, composed exclusively of Board members with no involvement in any bid, was convened to ensure a transparent and conflict-free shortlisting process for the 2027 and potentially 2029 World Congresses.
Six locations were shortlisted for further feasibility and financial assessments, with IASP’s strategic goals guiding all deliberations. The Board subcommittee presented its final recommendation at the end of November, leading to the selection of Colombo. The subcommittee will reconvene in the new year to continue discussions regarding host locations for the 2029 and 2031 World Congresses.
Sri Lanka’s successful bid reflects the country’s remarkable journey in suicide prevention. Once recording the highest suicide rate globally in the mid-1990s, Sri Lanka has since achieved the most dramatic reductions in suicide rates ever documented. Hosting the IASP World Congress in Colombo offers an important opportunity to highlight this progress and share key lessons with regional and international partners.
Despite these achievements, Sri Lanka continues to face significant challenges. Rising rates of suicide and persistent concerns around young people remain pressing public health issues. Bringing the IASP World Congress to Colombo will help draw attention to these ongoing concerns and foster collaborative efforts among local and international researchers, policymakers, administrators, and mental health advocates.
Sri Lanka is home to a growing and dynamic research community focused on suicide and self-harm. The 2027 Congress will provide an important platform to showcase their work, strengthen global partnerships, and advance collective efforts to reduce suicide and its impact worldwide.
