Global conflicts impact 2 in 3 international meetings, report organisers

 

New IAPCO-led research quantifies impact of global unrest on global meetings industry

The results of the Global Socio-Political Impact Survey of 2025 which was issued by the International Association of Professional Congress Organisers (IAPCO), in collaboration with the National PCO Association Task Force members and global Strategic Partners, show two-thirds of respondents (59.53%) reported that global conflicts have impacted their ability to plan or host international meetings or events – either moderately (45.24%) or significantly (14.29%). Furthermore, 25% have had to cancel, postpone, or relocate events due to safety concerns and instability.

Find & Download the full report here

The international association partners sought to quantify the impact of global unrest, policy changes and armed conflicts of the last two years on the international meetings and conference industry. They sent a survey to their combined membership in April 2025.  Martin Boyle, CEO of IAPCO said the results are clear – the current global unrest is impacting organisers, venues, travel, and delegates to meet, learn, exchange knowledge and do business.  “The report revealed that 57.14% of respondents had between 1 to 10 of their client's venues impacted by global unrest, with 5.95% reporting this number was between 11 and 20. To put this into context, in 2024 alone, IAPCO members delivered 19,469 events globally – we are talking about vast numbers of conferences that have been disrupted.” The financial costs are mounting. “Over one-quarter of respondents (26.83%) said they had experienced losses of up to €50,000, and 14.64% experienced losses greater than €150,000. “The results paint a clear picture of an industry navigating multifaceted pressures, from operational logistics to stakeholder confidence and financial viability.  “The findings reinforce the need for continued adaptability, contingency planning, and enhanced collaboration across the global meetings and events community.” Martin said as IAPCO members brace for further impacts – especially as the Trump Administration’s freeze on research and academic’s attending conferences – they are well placed to deliver through complex and challenging circumstances due to their reviewed quality processes, global connections, and their deep commitment to continuous improvement. “IAPCO members are at the top of their game. Whilst these challenges are biting, members are leaning on each other to innovate and work together for the benefit of their clients. The power of our global community has never been more important,” said Boyle.

About IAPCO The International Association of Professional Congress Organisers (IAPCO) is the only global accreditation body for Professional Conference and Congress Organisers (PCOs), representing the gold standard of excellence in the global meetings industry. A not-for-profit, member-driven organisation, IAPCO exists to elevate professional standards in the planning and delivery of world-class conferences and meetings. IAPCO has over 92 members, operating from over 180 offices across the globe. In 2024, they delivered a combined 19,469 events with an economic impact of over €17.8 billion. Our members have undergone a rigorous peer-review process to be regarded as IAPCO Accredited and need to consistently demonstrate an unwavering commitment to quality, integrity, and innovation. Underpinned by three strategic pillars – Community, Education, and Advocacy – IAPCO is the global voice of the PCO. Together, we champion the profession, inspire excellence, and unlock new possibilities in event delivery. The key to quality. IAPCO: Unlocking Excellence. Tags: Martin Boyle, IAPCO, Survey