Glasgow chosen as host city for 2023 International Play Association World Congress

The International Play Association (IPA) has chosen Glasgow to host its 2023 World Congress, which will be held at Glasgow Caledonian University. The congress will host up to 700 delegates from over 50 countries around the world, and is worth over £1m to the city’s economy. Former hosts of the congress include Calgary and Istanbul. The IPA aims to protect, preserve and promote children’s right to play as a fundamental human right. The congress will bring delegates from all professions concerned with the wellbeing of children together in Glasgow to exchange ideas and inspire action. Aileen Crawford, head of conventions, Glasgow Convention Bureau, said: “As future hosts of the 2023 World Congress we are proud that Glasgow will be involved in sharing creative solutions from across the globe, to help children cope, and thrive. IPA is a wonderful example of face-to-face meetings as a forum to tackle global issues and drive positive action.” Margaret Westwood, chair of the International Play Association Scotland said: “IPA Scotland is indebted to Glasgow Convention Bureau for their invaluable support in planning our bid for this conference, which promises to be innovative, green, inclusive and famously friendly!” Clare Haughey, Scottish minister for children and young people said: “The Scottish Government’s recent £60m commitment to renew play parks in Scotland is just one example of our support for play, and we look forward to sharing our passion for play with the rest of the world.”