FIDI is delaying a final decision on the location of its 2023 conference because of continuing Covid restrictions.
The organisation had hoped to hold next year’s conference in Osaka, Japan, following the forced cancellation of the event there in 2020.
However, while most countries have relaxed travel rules, Japan still has constraints in place for international travellers entering the country.
In a statement released on 14 July, FIDI said: ‘As it is difficult to predict how the situation will evolve over the coming months, the FIDI Board feels that it is currently not in a position to confirm that the 2023 FIDI Conference will take place in Osaka, Japan.
‘The FIDI office is in close contact with Japanese authorities, the conference hotel and local contacts to evaluate the situation. Our main concern is, of course, to guarantee the health and safety of our attendees and staff, as well as to limit the financial risk for our association. With the valuable assistance of FIDI Asia, the FIDI Board and office is looking into alternative locations.
‘It is difficult to plan ahead in these times of uncertainty and we thank you for your understanding and support. We will keep you informed about new developments. If you have any questions or comments, please contact the FIDI office at fidi@fidi.org’
In a video address to Affiliates (below), FIDI President Laura Ganon said FIDI was looking into other locations that could be used for the 2023 conference if it was not possible to hold the conference in Japan.
FIDI hopes to announce the location of the conference at the end of July.