WELCOME MESSAGE

It is our great pleasure and privilege to welcome you to the 53rd Annual Meeting of the International Society for Pediatric and Adolescent Diabetes (ISPAD), taking place in Dublin, Ireland, in 2027.

On behalf of the Local Organising Committee, Children’s Health Ireland, and our colleagues across Ireland, we are honoured to host the international ISPAD community in Dublin. We look forward to bringing together clinicians, researchers, psychologists, diabetes educators, allied health professionals, advocates, young people, and families from around the world to advance our shared mission of improving the lives of children and adolescents living with diabetes.

ISPAD has always been a forum where scientific excellence, clinical innovation, and human connection come together. As we gather in Dublin, we will explore the latest developments in diabetes research and care, from advances in diabetes technology, precision medicine, and prevention strategies, to emerging insights into psychosocial care, health equity, and the lived experience of young people and their families. Together, we will consider not only what is scientifically possible, but also how we can ensure that these advances are accessible and meaningful for all children and young people, regardless of where they live. Inspired by the themes highlighted by ISPAD 2026, including precision medicine, technological innovation, and equitable access to care, the Dublin meeting will continue these important conversations while looking ahead to the future of paediatric diabetes.

Ireland has long been a meeting place for people, ideas, and cultures. Dublin is a vibrant European capital known for its rich literary heritage, creative spirit, and warm welcome. It is a city shaped by storytellers and visionaries, from James Joyce, W.B. Yeats, Samuel Beckett and Seamus Heaney to more contemporary voices that continue to influence global culture. It is also home to a tradition of leadership and social progress embodied by figures such as Mary Robinson, whose commitment to human rights and global citizenship has inspired generations.

Visitors to Dublin will experience a city where history and innovation exist side by side. Whether exploring the historic streets of the city centre, enjoying the beauty of Dublin Bay, or discovering Ireland’s renowned music, arts, and hospitality, we hope you will leave with lasting memories. Many of our guests will also recognise Ireland through the music that has travelled around the world, from traditional Irish musicians to global artists such as U2, whose spirit of creativity, connection, and optimism reflects much of what we hope this meeting will achieve.

Most importantly, we hope that ISPAD 2027 will strengthen the connections that make our community so special. The challenges facing children and young people living with diabetes are global, and progress depends on collaboration across disciplines, countries, and cultures. By coming together in Dublin, we can learn from one another, inspire new ideas, and continue to improve outcomes for future generations.

As a small island with a global outlook, Ireland has always valued community, conversation, and partnership. These same values lie at the heart of ISPAD. We warmly invite you to join us in Dublin in 2027 for an outstanding scientific programme, stimulating discussion, new collaborations, and the renowned Irish welcome. We look forward to sharing our city, our culture, and our vision for the future of paediatric diabetes care with you.

We warmly invite you to join us in Dublin! Céad Míle Fáilte!