Selecting the next EFS Congress Venue

The Executive Committee has reviewed all three bids and introduced a multi-layered voting system to ensure a fair and transparent selection process.

How the vote works

The final outcome will be determined by two components:

General Assembly vote — The GA will express their preference
Executive Committee decision — After the congress, the newly elected Executive Committee will make the final decision on the venue, taking the GA’s preference into account alongside a full feasibility assessment carried out together with the PCO.

The three bids will be presented at the General Assembly on 29 May 2026 at 6:30 PM, after which society members will cast their votes.

Candidates for the venue of the next EFS congress

Kristiansand – Norway

Antwerp – Belgium

La Valletta – Malta

Following the close of voting, the Executive Committee will deliberate and announce the winning venue in July 2026.”

A Shared Commitment to Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights

The ESCRH Position Paper reaffirms that sexual and reproductive health and rights are fundamental human rights and should be guaranteed to all individuals without discrimination, coercion, or violence. The document highlights the importance of evidence-based healthcare, equitable access to contraception, comprehensive sexuality education, prevention and treatment of sexually transmitted infections, and protection from gender-based violence.

The position paper also emphasizes the need to address inequalities affecting marginalized populations, including adolescents, LGBTQIA+ individuals, migrants, refugees, people with disabilities, older adults, and sex workers. It calls for inclusive, accessible, and rights-based healthcare systems capable of meeting the needs of diverse communities.

Key Areas of Focus

Among its main recommendations, the document advocates for:

Universal access to modern contraception and family planning services;
Safe, legal, and dignified reproductive healthcare;
Comprehensive sexuality and reproductive health education throughout the lifespan;
Stronger prevention, screening, and treatment strategies for sexually transmitted infections and HIV;
Improved access to HPV vaccination and reproductive cancer prevention programs;
Action against gender-based violence and harmful practices such as female genital mutilation;
Protection of evidence-based healthcare from misinformation and ideological interference.

The paper further highlights the importance of professional education, scientific research, and international collaboration in advancing sexual and reproductive health and rights.

Supporting Evidence-Based and Rights-Centred Healthcare

EFS shares the view that sexual and reproductive health is closely linked to human dignity, equality, public health, and social justice. The Federation therefore supports the principles and recommendations outlined in the ESCRH Position Paper and welcomes continued collaboration among professional organizations working to promote sexual health and wellbeing throughout Europe.

Read the Full Position Paper

EFS encourages members, professionals, and stakeholders to consult the complete document published by the European Society of Contraception and Reproductive Health.