EPC 2026 in Bologna

The European Population Conference (EPC), the flagship conference of the European Association for Population Studies (EAPS), brings together researchers in demography and population studies from across the globe. This year’s conference was held in Bologna, Italy, a city renowned for being home to the oldest continuously operating university in the Western world. EPC 2026 was hosted by the Department of Statistical Sciences “Paolo Fortunati” at the University of Bologna (founded in 1088).

The conference attracted more than 1,000 participants from Europe and beyond and featured over 100 sessions covering the full spectrum of population research. Under the theme “Meeting New Realities,” EPC 2026 explored how demographic research can respond to the profound transformations reshaping contemporary societies—from climate change and armed conflicts to economic uncertainty, technological advances, and shifting geopolitical dynamics. Rather than seeking to promote “ideal” demographic models, the conference encouraged both researchers and policymakers to better understand and adapt to emerging demographic realities, with the aim of anticipating their social, economic, and political consequences.

The organisers created an inspiring environment that fostered scientific exchange, collaboration, and networking. Beyond its rich scientific programme, EPC 2026 provided valuable opportunities for establishing new professional connections and renewing existing ones. Conference activities were held at several prestigious venues across the historic centre of Bologna, including Complesso Belmeloro (main venue), SAIS Europe (poster sessions), Palazzo Poggi (poster aperitivo), Palazzo Re Enzo (opening ceremony and welcome reception), and Serre dei Giardini Margherita (conference party).

Following the opening addresses by representatives of the University of Bologna, as well as regional and local authorities, a roundtable discussion was held featuring invited speakers Francesco C. Billari (Rector of Bocconi University) and Jessica Fanzo (SAIS Europe – Johns Hopkins University), moderated by Raya Muttarak (University of Bologna). The discussion addressed some of the key demographic, social, and environmental challenges facing contemporary societies. The opening ceremony concluded with a welcome reception accompanied by a live performance from the Orchestra Senzaspine.

Several innovative initiatives distinguished this year’s conference. Poster sessions were organised across multiple venues, bringing demographic research into direct dialogue with the city itself. Evening poster sessions were accompanied by the traditional Italian aperitivo, encouraging informal discussions and networking in a relaxed atmosphere. In addition, the pre-conference day featured a diverse programme of workshops and other professional development activities.

The scientific programme included 90 regular oral sessions, 19 flash sessions, 8 poster sessions, numerous special sessions, and a variety of social events. In total, around 600 papers were presented during the four-day conference.

The Association of Demographers of Serbia (DDS) was represented at EPC 2026 by three of its members: Ognjen Obućina (INED – French Institute for Demographic Studies), Vladimir Nikitović (Institute of Social Sciences – Centre for Demographic Research, Belgrade), and Natalija Mirić (University of Belgrade – Faculty of Geography). In addition to presenting their research, all three actively participated in the conference programme and discussions. Ognjen Obućina also served as chair of the session “Life-Course Determinants of Fertility Intentions and Realization,” which generated considerable interest among participants.

At the closing ceremony, the organisers announced that the next European Population Conference will be held in Tallinn, Estonia, in 2028. We hope that the Association of Demographers of Serbia will be represented there by an even larger delegation than in Bologna, continuing its active contribution to the international demographic research community.

Photos & videos: Mirić, Nikitović, Obućina

Published on June 9, 2026