The EU CVB Network, which unites 8 European cities, brought together 20 leading London-based associations today for an association event held at the contemporary Boha Restaurant in London. The event offered a relaxed yet focused setting to explore the future of collaboration between European destinations and international associations.
The afternoon began with a lively networking, followed by a presentation of all Florence, Gothenburg, Ljubljana, Lyon, Porto, Rotterdam, Salzburg and Valencia. The Network is committed to fostering lasting partnerships and providing tailored destination support to the international association community.
The organisers were delighted to welcome esteemed association leaders to London and to share the values and purpose behind their collaboration. Attendees appreciated the peer-focused setting and the opportunity to exchange ideas directly with representatives from across Europe,and it sparked a lively conversation between the association representatives.
Some association executives shared their impressions: “I receive so many invitations and rarely respond, but this one stood out. The idea of meeting eight destinations in one place – without having to schedule separate conversations – was incredibly efficient and appealing. I’m so glad I accepted,” commented Sabrina Khamissa – Event & Brand Officer for the Cochrane Collaboration.
“One of the most valuable parts of the lunch was the open exchange of experiences among associations. It’s not often we get to share ideas so candidly in a setting like this – it really encouraged honest conversation and collective learning. Topics like legacy, which we touched on during the discussion, benefit greatly from these kinds of peer insights,” said Maaike Kusters, Treasurer of the European Society for Immunodeficiencies.
Following this successful event in London, the EU CVB Network will continue its engagement in other activities, like the ICCA Congress in Porto in November 2025. The annual event series is planned to continue in 2026.
“What really impressed me was the geographical diversity of the eight destinations – covering all corners of Europe, from north to south. It’s a powerful reminder of how CVBs can offer not just venue options, but real access to local communities. That kind of collaboration can genuinely elevate the quality and impact of our congresses,” said John Seddon, Secretary of the European Biophysical Societies Association.
Learn more about the event here.
