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Held biennially, the IBBY International Congress brings together national sections of IBBY, along with professionals and advocates dedicated to promoting access to books for children and young people worldwide. It serves as a global platform for building professional networks, exchanging knowledge, and exploring emerging trends in children’s literature. The programme includes panel discussions, seminars, workshops, exhibitions, and cultural events, alongside the announcement of the Hans Christian Andersen Award and the IBBY Honour List.
The announcement was made during the IBBY General Assembly, held on the sidelines of the Bologna Children’s Book Fair, which is taking place from April 13 to 16 in Italy.
Her Highness Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi stated that hosting the congress reflects the UAE’s deep belief in the power of words to shape awareness and build individuals. She emphasised that stories inspire generations and promote values such as empathy and openness, while highlighting the UAE’s experience in supporting children’s literature and strengthening Sharjah’s position as a global cultural hub.
The UAE’s selection to host the congress underscores its status as a leading cultural hub, supported by an integrated ecosystem that promotes publishing and reading culture. This includes book fairs, festivals, cultural institutions, translation initiatives, and public libraries. The hosting reflects international confidence in the UAE’s ability to deliver major global events and support the development of children’s and young adult literature.
The congress is expected to feature specialised sessions on key themes such as creative content development, translation quality, and the role of libraries and educational institutions in fostering reading. It will also highlight best practices in book design, accessibility, and the role of literature in promoting environmental and social awareness, as well as bibliotherapy.
His Excellency Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qasimi, Minister of Culture, said that hosting the congress reflects the UAE’s commitment to culture as a bridge for dialogue and mutual understanding. He noted that children’s literature helps build culturally aware generations and strengthens international collaboration in the publishing sector.
The hosting also recognises the efforts of the UAE Board on Books for Young People in supporting national sections, particularly in Arab countries, and enhancing their engagement within IBBY. The congress will offer opportunities to strengthen partnerships and exchange knowledge globally, supporting joint initiatives and institutional collaboration.
Founded in 1953 and headquartered in Switzerland, IBBY is a global organisation operating in over 80 countries, promoting reading and supporting children’s literature worldwide. The UAE Board on Books for Young People, established in 2010 on the initiative of Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi, leads programmes that support publishers, authors, and illustrators, while enhancing reading culture.
With this hosting, Sharjah joins a list of global cities that have hosted the congress, including Trieste (2024), Putrajaya (2022), Moscow (2021), Athens (2018), Auckland (2016), Mexico City (2014), and London (2012). The 40th edition will be held in Ottawa, Canada, from August 6 to 9, 2026, while Barcelona, Spain, will host the 41st edition from September 29 to October 1, 2028.
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