“The good ship Friendship sails between Glasgow
And your far, your golden, coast.”
Liz Lochead, humanist and Scotland’s Makar (2011-16)

Humanist Society Scotland is delighted to invite you to the International Humanist Conference 2022 in Glasgow. This will be the first time we have hosted the event since we were established in 1989, and we will be rolling out the tartan carpet.

In the wake of the seismic changes brought about across the world by the pandemic, the worrying rise in anti-science rhetoric, the rise of fake news and tweeting politicians, and the climate emergency that remains largely unaddressed, we ask:

“Is it time for a new enlightenment, and what role should humanism play?”

The Scottish Enlightenment brought progress in many areas of life including philosophy, literature, economics, science, medicine, architecture, art, and music, and enriched and improved the lives of many. We want to explore how a new humanist Enlightenment could address the growing inequalities we face, the irreversible harm we are causing to the planet in the name of progress, disrupt the patterns of power that foster inequality, and challenge the growing body of anti-science and anti-truth rhetoric that threatens democracy.

Conference Outline (please note this may be subject to change)

Friday 3rd June 2022
Day: Young Humanists International General Assembly
Day: European Humanist Federation General Assembly
Evening: TBC

Saturday 4th June 2022
Day: Humanist International Conference hosted by Humanist Society Scotland
Evening: Traditional Burns Supper and Ceilidh

Sunday 5th June 2022
Day: Humanists International General Assembly
Day: Professionals Training Sessions

If you would like to register your interest or would like information on booking and accommodation providers as it becomes available, please sign up to our mailing list.

Packed with stunning Victorian and art nouveau architecture, green spaces, and some of the friendliest people on earth, Glasgow is home to the Scottish Opera, Scottish Ballet, the National Theatre of Scotland, and now the International Humanist Conference 2022! Watch this video for a wee taster of the vibrant city of Glasgow.