The International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP) has announced that bursary applications are now open for its 34th World Congress, offering financial support to individuals seeking to attend the upcoming global gathering on suicide prevention. The congress, scheduled to bring together researchers, clinicians, policymakers, and advocates from around the world, aims to advance knowledge and collaboration in reducing suicide rates worldwide.
According to IASP, over 700 participants from more than 50 countries attended the previous congress, highlighting the event's growing international impact. Bursaries are designed to support early-career professionals, students, and individuals from low- and middle-income countries who might otherwise face barriers to participation.
We believe that diverse voices are essential to effective suicide prevention, said Dr. Rory O’Connor, President of IASP. These bursaries help ensure that critical perspectives from underrepresented regions and communities are included in our global dialogue.
The bursary program covers registration fees and may include partial support for travel and accommodation, depending on availability and applicant need. Applications are being reviewed on a rolling basis, with priority given to those demonstrating strong alignment with IASP’s mission and potential to contribute to congress discussions.
Applicants must submit a detailed statement outlining their background, interest in suicide prevention, and how attending the congress will support their professional or academic development. Selection is conducted by an independent IASP committee based on merit, equity, and geographic diversity.
Beyond financial support, the World Congress serves as a key platform for sharing cutting-edge research, innovative intervention strategies, and policy developments in suicide prevention. Past congresses have led to the formation of international collaborations and influenced national suicide prevention strategies in multiple countries.
Advancing Global Equity in Suicide Prevention
The IASP World Congress continues to emphasize inclusivity and accessibility as core values, recognizing that suicide is a global public health issue requiring culturally responsive solutions. By reducing financial barriers, the bursary initiative supports broader participation and helps ensure that prevention efforts are informed by a wide range of experiences and contexts.
As suicide remains a leading cause of death worldwide, particularly among young people, events like the IASP Congress play a vital role in fostering global cooperation. The organization encourages applicants from all backgrounds to apply and contribute to the collective mission of preventing suicide and promoting mental health worldwide.
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