Since 1995, the Kongress Armut und Gesundheit (Poverty and Health Congress) has been Germany’s key platform for addressing health inequalities. Each year, it brings together stakeholders from science, healthcare, politics, practice, and self-help to examine the structural drivers of health disparities, share research, and explore strategies for change.

The 2026 congress will center on a pressing question: What are social equity and health worth to us as a society? Building on last year’s call for poverty-sensitive, evidence-based policymaking, the event will critically examine why political action often fails to reflect scientific evidence, and how this can be changed.

Participants can expect a programme of discussions, presentations, and workshops highlighting new research, policy approaches, and practical solutions. Contributions can be submitted until 15 September 2025.

📢 Congress “Poverty and Health 2026” – Health is Political!

On 16–17 March 2026, the annual Congress Poverty and Health will take place in Berlin, hosted at the Henry-Ford-Bau at the Free University of Berlin. The congress invites participants to discuss the central theme “Health is political! What is equity in health worth to us as a society?”.

The program includes more than 100 sessions, bringing together experts and practitioners from science, healthcare, politics, civil society, and community organizations. The event will be opened by Ilona Kickbusch, a renowned global health expert. 🎤

Since 1995, the congress has served as an important platform for raising awareness about health inequalities in Germany and exploring solutions. Participants will discuss research findings, policy strategies, and practical experiences aimed at addressing the social determinants of health, such as housing, education, and employment. 🏥⚖️

The event also places a strong focus on young professionals and emerging voices, with special formats such as a Science Slam and sessions designed for early-career participants. 🎓

By bringing together diverse actors each year, the Congress helps strengthen advocacy for people affected by poverty and health inequality and promotes dialogue on how societies can create fairer health opportunities for all. 🌍

Secure tickets for the event here