Dear colleague
I would like to invite you to the 30th World Congress on Medical Law, which will be held at the University of Antwerp, Belgium from 5 to 7 August 2026.
This celebratory 30th edition will explore the central theme: Expanding Boundaries of Health Law: Access, Innovation, and Interdisciplinarity.
The opening session will address the new challenges facing healthcare in the decades ahead, setting the stage for an inspiring exchange among experts from around the world.
The scientific programme will cover a broad range of contemporary issues, including:
• AI, robotics, and digital health
• Patient rights, consent, and autonomy
• Legal Medicine
• Global bioethics and cross-border healthcare
• Access to care and health equity
• Intersections between health law and other disciplines of law
Full theme list available on the website.
Sessions and presentations will be held in English; but also, in Spanish, French, and Dutch, with interpretation provided.
We anticipate participants from more than 50 countries, making this congress a truly global and enriching event.
To support the next generation, scholarships will be available, and we warmly encourage young scholars to participate.
All registered participants will also receive a complimentary book:
Medical Law in Belgium: A Comprehensive Guide (300 pages), highlighting the unique characteristics of Belgian medical law.
Beyond the scientific programme, we invite you to enjoy the festive atmosphere of this special anniversary edition, including:
✨ Free guided walking tour of historic Antwerp
🦓 Free guided visit to the famous Antwerp Zoo
🍽️ Free gala dinner in the Zoo’s beautiful Art Nouveau Style building
🎶 WAML dance celebration to conclude the congress in style
🖼️ Visit to the outstanding Museum of Fine Arts (KMSKA)
Antwerp is a vibrant and welcoming city — sunny in August, rich in history, art, culture, and culinary delights.
I would be honoured to welcome you for an unforgettable academic and social experience.
👉 Learn more and register via the WAML website.
I sincerely hope to greet you and your friends and colleagues in Antwerp for this memorable 30th WAML Congress.
With warm regards
Thierry Vansweevelt
President of WAML and AHLEC