2024 International Geographical Congress to be held in Galway
Congratulations to Dr Frances Fahy, leader of the Environment, Development, and Sustainability cluster, who, along with Prof Niamh Moore Cherry (UCD), represented Ireland at the International Geographical Union Congress in Beijing in August and won the bid to host the International Geographical Congress in Ireland in August 2024. This event is the largest international gathering of geographers and happens every four years. The Irish Embassy in Beijing was extremely supportive and hosted a “Taste of Ireland” reception for all of the international supporters during the event.
The theme of the 2024 Congress, “Bridging a World of Difference”, will focus on the central role of Geography as a discipline that: bridges the natural and social sciences; develops intercultural awareness and understanding; promotes intellectual diversity as a strength; and grapples with the complex interconnections between people, place and the natural environments. In an increasingly contested and fragmented world, acknowledging our common humanity and shared home is essential in tackling the major societal, environmental and economic challenges.
Ireland has a contested political history that derives from a post-colonial legacy that is unique in western Europe. Its emergence as a modern society highlights the importance of bridging cultural, economic, and social differences. Globally connected with a rich national and local heritage, Ireland is a key bridge geographically between the United States and Eurasia, historically between the colonial and post-colonial worlds, and culturally (through music, art and literature) between our island and our global diaspora, which now is estimated at over 100 million. IGC 2024 in Ireland will draw on its rich heritage and diverse landscapes to provide delegates with an enriching experience.
The congress event in 2024 will attract over 3,000 geographers and there are a range of activities planned for NUI Galway and field trips on the west coast associated with it.
