The theme of this year's conference is " Think globally, act locally" and reflects the work of ILGA-Europe and its members on advocating for international human rights standards and practices and their implementation at the local level. We hope that conference’s experienced panel speakers will not only outline current achievements, but also inspire a vision for the future of LGBT Europe.

ILGA-Europe is pleased to announce that we have already received a confirmation from Mr Thomas Hammarberg, Council of Europe’s Commissioner for Human Rights, who will take part in one of the conference’s panel discussions.

HOSI Wien, the Austrian host organisation has already secured a high profile patronage of the conference - Heinz Fischer, Federal President of the Republic of Austria, has agreed to be honorary patron of the conference.

The following personalities have already agreed to be part of the conference’s “honorary committee”:

• Barbara Prammer, President of the National Council (Parliament) of Austria
• Eva Glawischnig-Piesczek, Third President of the National Council (Parliament) of Austria
• Alfred Gusenbauer, Federal Chancellor of Austria
• Ursula Plassnik, Foreign Minister of Austria
• Maria Berger, Federal Minister of Justice
• Doris Bures, Federal Minister for Women, Media and Civil Service
• Michael Häupl, Mayor and Governor of Vienna (at the moment also President of the Council of European Municipalities and Regions, CEMR)

Some of the key dates to remember:

• 23 June - 1st mailing
• 4 August - Deadline submission of proposals
• 18 August - 2nd mailing with preliminary conference agenda
• 12 September - Deadline for amendments to proposals:
• 6 October - 3rd mailing/final agenda

All announcement, mailing, practical information and advice on travel and accommodation will be available here later.