In our increasingly interconnected world, it is especially important for scientists to travel, gather, and engage in open dialogue about their work. International conferences are not just routine events—they are essential platforms for advancing science through the sharing of ideas, building collaborations across borders, and staying at the forefront of new discoveries.

As organizers and supporters of the IUCr 2026 Congress, the American Crystallographic Association (ACA), the U.S. National Committee for Crystallography (USNC/Cr), the Canadian National Committee for Crystallography (CNCC), and the International Union of Crystallography (IUCr) affirm the vital importance of in-person scientific exchange in building a stronger global scientific community. These organizations are deeply committed to fostering opportunities for researchers to connect, collaborate across borders, and drive the collective advancement of science.

We encourage you to read the two letters that follow. The first, from the Union of Unions and endorsed by the IUCr, affirms the critical importance of scientific travel and supports participation in international meetings. The second, from the organizers of IUCr2026, outlines their strong commitment to upholding the principles and policies of the IUCr and their plans to ensure that the conference will be inclusive, accessible, and ethically sound for all participants.