The Programme Committee is responsible for developing the congress programme for the 6th IASSIDD Europe Congress held in Amsterdam from July 6 to 8, 2021. Its work centres on the scientific study of intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and the congress theme, Value Diversity.
Prof. dr. Alice P. Schippers served as Congress Chair, leading the committee in curating tracks, keynote debates, and abstract review across the hybrid event.
Committee leadership
| Role | Name |
|---|---|
| Congress Chair | Prof. dr. Alice P. Schippers |
| Programme Committee | Members of Disability Studies in Nederland (DSiN) |
Focus areas
- Scientific study of intellectual and developmental disabilities.
- Congress tracks covering multiple aspects of disability studies.
- Selection and coordination of keynote debates.
- Coordination of track directors and abstract reviewers.
The 6th IASSIDD Europe Congress, held in Amsterdam from July 6 to 8, 2021, centred on the theme Value Diversity. This theme was chosen to reflect the important shifts occurring in how society understands and supports people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The congress provided a platform for researchers, practitioners, self-advocates, and family members to come together and explore new directions. The hybrid format allowed both in-person attendance in Amsterdam and virtual participation from around the world, ensuring broad access to the discussions. The programme was designed to encourage active engagement and meaningful exchange across different perspectives and disciplines.
The Programme Committee played a central role in shaping the congress experience. Its members were responsible for developing a rich and varied programme that included keynote debates, oral presentations, poster sessions, and interactive workshops. The committee drew on expertise from the field of disability studies and related disciplines to ensure scientific rigour and relevance. Each submission was carefully reviewed to maintain high quality and alignment with the congress theme. The committee also worked to include diverse voices and perspectives, recognising that genuine progress in the field depends on collaboration across different communities and areas of knowledge.
One of the key features of the congress was its attention to contemporary challenges facing the IDD community. Topics such as the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on care and daily life, the history and ongoing relevance of eugenics, mental health support, parenting with disabilities, and quality of life were addressed through dedicated tracks and sessions. Presenters shared new research findings, practical innovations, and personal experiences. These discussions helped participants reflect on how services, policies, and attitudes need to evolve. The congress created space for both critical analysis and forward-looking vision, encouraging everyone to consider what a truly inclusive future might look like.
The hybrid nature of the 6th IASSIDD Europe Congress was a direct response to the realities of the pandemic era. Organisers designed the virtual component to be more than a simple livestream of in-person events. Online attendees could participate in live sessions, interact with presenters, and connect with other participants through dedicated digital tools. This approach meant that the congress reached a wider audience than previous editions, with registrations and participation from many countries. The experience demonstrated that virtual and hybrid formats can enhance accessibility and inclusion, even as the community looks forward to returning to in-person gatherings when circumstances allow.
Beyond the formal programme, the congress fostered a sense of community and shared purpose. Participants were invited to envision the future of the field together, building on the momentum of the discussions held during the event. The organising team emphasised the importance of creating an inspiring atmosphere where colleagues, friends, and newcomers alike could connect. Special sessions and informal networking opportunities complemented the academic programme, reinforcing that progress in intellectual and developmental disability research and practice depends on relationships as much as on knowledge. The congress served as a reminder that valuing diversity means actively working to include every person and every perspective in the conversation.