XXIII International IFOTES Congress
The
human
touch
the power of presence
Budapest (Hungary) 8-12 July 2026
The theme
The rapid rise of AI has significantly changed our lives, but questions remain about its true value and impact on human connection.
Core human values like empathy and solidarity are still essential. While AI can simulate conversation, it cannot replace the genuine, trust-based responses humans offer. Human touch and presence remain vital for meaningful support.
Sonja Karrer
President of IFOTES
I’m looking forward to the congress in 2026 with the main topic of “The Human Touch”. So let us enjoy the Hungarian hospitality and the Power of Presence at the next IFOTES congress in 2026. I’m looking forward to seeing many of you in Budapest!
Erika Dudàs
President of LESZ
It is with great joy and heartfelt greeting that we welcome you to Budapest for the next IFOTES Congress. Volunteers of the Hungarian TES are enthusiastically preparing all over the Carpathian Basin to make your days in Hungary a pleasant and positive experience both professionally and personally.
8
July 2026
Wednesday
Day 1: Welcome and opening
15.00 - 19.00 Arrival and registration
19.00 Welcome reception
9
July 2026
Thursday
Day 2: The world we live in - Humans, AI and reality
09.00 - 10.30 Plenary
10.30 - 11.00 Coffee Break
11.00 - 12.30 Plenary
12.30 - 14.30 Lunch
14.30 - 17.00 Parallel lectures / Workshops
10
July 2026
Friday
Day 3: The awareness of being human
- 09.00 - 10.30 Plenary
- 10.30 - 11.00 Coffee Break
11.00 - 12.30 Parallel lectures / Workshops
12.30 - 14.30 Lunch
- 14.30 - 18.00 Social programs
11
July 2026
Saturday
Day 4: Empowering our human skills and values
- 09.00 - 10.30 Plenary
- 10.30 - 11.00 Coffee Break
- 11.00 - 12.30 Parallel lectures / Workshops
- 12.30 - 14.30 Lunch
- 14.30 - 17.00 Parallel lectures / Workshops
12
July 2026
Sunday
Day 5: How can human qualities and AI interact
- 09.00 - 10.30 Plenary
- 10.30 - 11.00 Coffee Break
- 11.00 - 12.30 Closing plenary