2020 World Ophthalmology Congress Cancelled; Virtual Program Planned

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, The International Council of Ophthalmology (ICO) has decided to cancel the World Ophthalmology Congress (WOC2020), scheduled to take place June 26-29, in Cape Town, Africa.

In a message to its members, ICO leadership stated that it remains devoted to bringing together the world’s ophthalmologists to learn the latest from one another, and to advance eye care during these extraordinarily challenging times. 

“With this in mind, the ICO has decided to bring the world congress to each of you in the form of a virtual experience—WOC2020 Virtual—June 26-29, 2020. This will be an exciting, exceptional experience that showcases an outstanding scientific program with over 2,000 presentations of the highest level given by leaders and experts from around the world. WOC2020 Virtual will offer interactive networking opportunities with live streaming features that will include our committed corporate partners, with industry symposia and more. The virtual experience will be an opportunity to come together, collaborate and share the latest advancements in eye care.”

IOC said that everyone who is already registered for the WOC2020 meeting will automatically be transferred to WOC2020 Virtual. Those who have overpaid based on the new lower registration fees will be reimbursed for the difference. Anyone wishing to cancel will receive a full refund.