The International Observatory on Participatory Democracy (OIDP) is looking for a city to host the 27th OIDP Conference in 2028. The selected city will also assume the presidency of the OIDP for 2028 and serve as Co-President in 2029.

The OIDP organizes this major international event each year, bringing together local, regional, and national leaders, elected officials, facilitators, academics, and political activists. The Conference is a unique space for exchange, debate, and innovation in participatory democracy, featuring:

• Keynote lectures

• High-level panel discussions

• Interactive workshops

• Networking sessions and study visits

In 2026, the City of Kraków (Poland) will host the 25th OIDP Conference, followed by Niterói (Brazil) in 2027.

Now, we invite cities and regions worldwide to submit their bids to host the 27th OIDP Conference in 2028!

Responsibilities of the Host City

• Organize and finance the 27th OIDP Conference in 2028, securing necessary partnerships.

• Define the main theme of the event, in alignment with the OIDP network and United Cities and Local Governments (UCLG) agenda.

• Ensure an inclusive, participatory, and accessible event for all attendees.

How to Apply?

To submit your application, send an email to oidp@uclg.org by 6 September 2026 with:

• A letter from the political head of your local or regional government officially presenting the bid.

• A general outline of the proposed conference content (maximum two pages).

• A description of the technical and financial resources available to support the event (maximum two pages).

Applications will be discussed at the OIDP General Assembly in 2026.

Previous Host Cities

Since 2001, the following cities have hosted the OIDP Conference:
Barcelona, Quetzaltenango, Lille, Buenos Aires, San Sebastián-Donostia, Nanterre, La Paz, Reggio Emilia, Mexico City, Lleida, Porto Alegre, Cascais, Canoas, Madrid, Matola, Montreal, Barcelona, Iztapalapa, Cocody, Grenoble, Rio de Janeiro, Valongo and Córdoba.

Key documents to prepare your bid:

• Regulation for the selection of the 2028 OIDP presidency and host of the 2028 Conference.

• Terms of reference for the organization of the Conference

Need more information?

For any questions, feel free to reach out to oidp@uclg.org.

Interested in hosting the 27th OIDP Conference? Contact the OIDP Technical Secretariat today and take the first step toward bringing this global event to your city!