ISOCARP 58th World Planning Congress – from wealthy to healthy cities

The ISOCARP 58th World Planning Congress brought together urban planners, architects, policymakers, and political leaders from around the globe in Brussels. This six-day congress aimed to identify solutions for making cities healthier and more sustainable through innovative planning, policymaking, and knowledge-sharing.

Runmate was appointed as Professional Congress Organiser (PCO) to manage this high-level international congress, ensuring seamless logistics, inspiring settings, and an excellent event experience for over 440 participants from 78 countries.

At Runmate, we believe in running conferences with impact. For the ISOCARP 58th World Planning Congress, we implemented a strategic and innovative approach to facilitate top-level knowledge exchange, dialogue, and networking.

1. Event organisation and planning
   • Developed a detailed programme and schedule in collaboration with ISOCARP and the Brussels Capital Region
   • Managed registration and participant coordination to ensure the best possible experience
   • Coordinated keynote speakers, panellists, and workshop leaders for a high-quality content programme
     
      
2. Venue and logistics management
   • Maison de la Poste at Tour & Taxis was configured as the central location for plenary sessions, workshops, and networking moments
   • Managed technical setup, AV services, and simultaneous interpretation
   • Implemented sustainable event solutions aligned with the city’s sustainability goals
     
      
3. Inspiring keynotes and workshops
   • Theme: From Wealthy to Healthy Cities, focusing on the future of urban planning and public health
   • Keynote speeches by international experts such as Simin Davoudi, Charles Landry, and Erik Swyngedouw
   • Interaction and knowledge exchange through more than 300 presentations, 5 thematic sessions, and 11 walkshops, bikeshops, and runshops
     
      
4. Networking opportunities and local city experience
   • Official opening ceremony with speeches from the Mayor of Brussels, the Brussels State Secretary, and representatives from WHO and UN-Habitat
   • Interactive city tours and workshops in cooperation with local and European partners
   • ISOCARP Run and evening receptions as informal networking moments
      

Thanks to Runmate’s seamless coordination and expertise, the ISOCARP 58th World Planning Congress became a globally recognised forum on the future of healthy cities:

• Over 440 participants from 78 countries actively engaged in the sessions
• Strengthened international collaboration between policymakers, urban planners, and academics
• New policy recommendations and insights on planning and health shared within the sector
• Positive feedback from organisers and participants on both logistical and content execution
  
   

Conclusion: Runmate as PCO for urban planning and sustainability conferences

With the ISOCARP 58th World Planning Congress, Runmate demonstrated its position as a leading partner in organising international conferences focused on urban development, sustainability, and public health. Through excellent coordination, innovative formats, and strong content collaboration, we contributed to the success and impact of this landmark event.

“I sincerely congratulate your company and thank you for your support in organising the 58th ISOCARP World Planning Congress in Brussels. I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your efforts and work, but also for the outstanding team spirit and professional cooperation I experienced. Your expertise greatly contributed to the overall success of the congress.” – Sarah Lagrillière, Deputy CEO