EU Support for ISD-DE 2026

Title of the Project: XV Congress of Dacryology and Dry Eye
   
Date and Venue of the Congress: 17–19 June 2026, Alexela Concert Hall, Tallinn

   
Introduction

The International Society of Dacryology and Dry Eye (ISD-DE), a global ophthalmological association specialising in dry eye disease and lacrimal system disorders, has selected Estonia as the host country for its biennial congress in 2026.

Preparations for the congress began in the second half of 2024 with the identification and invitation of keynote speakers. A total of 12 invited speakers have confirmed their participation. These internationally recognised leading experts in the field will travel to Estonia from Switzerland, the United Kingdom, the United States, the Philippines, Singapore, Canada, Japan, Italy and Germany.

The call for abstracts closed in 2025, with a total of 80 abstracts submitted from 21 countries worldwide.

To support the congress promotion, a mailing list comprising 3,250 contacts has been established. In addition, contact networks of all European ophthalmological associations have been compiled, information about the congress has been distributed through the websites of major international ophthalmology conferences, dedicated social media channels (Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram) have been launched, and a communications manager has been engaged.

Since 2024, active work has been carried out to secure sponsors for the event, including the development of tailored sponsorship packages. To date, ISD-DE 2026 has secured 10 sponsors. The congress is being organised in close cooperation with the ISD-DE Executive Board, whose members are also actively promoting the event within their respective regions.

A preliminary scientific programme, together with an accompanying cultural programme, has also been prepared.
    

Why is the ISD-DE 2026 Congress Important?

Hosting the ISD-DE 2026 Congress in Tallinn and Estonia is of exceptional significance, as it will be the first global congress in the field of ophthalmology ever held in Estonia.

This international event will bring together leading experts and participants from more than a dozen countries worldwide, while simultaneously highlighting the growing importance of Estonia and Estonian specialists within the international ophthalmology community. Dry eye disease is among the most common eye conditions globally, affecting an estimated up to 80% of the population. Lacrimal surgery, on the other hand, is a highly specialised field practised by only a very limited number of surgeons in each country. For this reason, international exchange of knowledge and expertise is essential for the continued development of the speciality.

The organisation of the congress will contribute to the professional development of local medical specialists, strengthen international cooperation between professional organisations and physicians, and promote Estonia and Tallinn as reliable and innovative destinations for professional education, scientific exchange and international conferences. The event will also support tourism and enhance Estonia’s positive international visibility. This is particularly important at a time when Estonia is frequently mentioned in the international media in the context of regional security and geopolitical tensions.

The experience of hosting the European Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (ESOPRS) Congress in Estonia in 2012 demonstrates the long-term value such events can bring. The organisation of the ESOPRS Congress in Tallinn received exceptionally positive feedback, which ultimately contributed to Estonia being invited to host the ISD-DE 2026 Congress as well.

   
Objectives

1. To organise the first-ever global ophthalmology congress in Estonia, bringing together leading experts from around the world.

2. To strengthen cooperation with international ophthalmologists and research institutions.

3. To provide Estonian ophthalmologists with access to the latest scientific research and the opportunity to present before an international audience.

4. To introduce innovative treatment methods, including live surgical procedures.

5. To enhance the reputation of Tallinn and Estonia as attractive and capable hosts for international medical conferences.

6. To increase the number of international visitors and introduce them to Estonian culture and nature.

   
Measurable Outcomes

1. Attendance of at least 300–400 participants, of whom approximately 80% will be international delegates.

2. A minimum of 50 oral presentations and participation by 12 invited keynote speakers.

3. Live surgical sessions attended by at least 250 specialists.

4. Coverage of the congress by at least two scientific or medical news outlets.

5. At least 90% of participants rating the organisation of the event as excellent or very good.

6. Active participation of delegates in the cultural programme, providing additional benefits to local service providers and businesses.

The project is co-funded by the European Union with a contribution of €30,000.