In a landmark decision for the global mathematics community, Glasgow and Dublin have been selected to jointly host the International Congress of Mathematicians (ICM) 2030, marking the first time the prestigious event will be staged across two countries.
The announcement was made by the International Mathematical Union (IMU) during the 2026 congress in Philadelphia, where the latest Fields Medals—widely regarded as the Nobel Prize of mathematics—were presented. The successful bid, led by the University of Glasgow and Maynooth University, defeated competing proposals from Tokyoand Hong Kong, securing the right to host one of the world's most influential scientific gatherings.
A Return to Europe
The decision is significant not only because of its innovative cross-border format, but also because it brings the congress back to Europe after a 24-year absence. Following the 2026 meeting in the United States, the IMU opted to return the event to Europe, where it was last held in Madrid in 2006. The UK last hosted the congress in 1958.
For Europe, the decision represents more than a change of venue. It reflects the continent's enduring strength in mathematical research and offers an opportunity to inspire a new generation of scientists at a time when mathematics is increasingly central to artificial intelligence, quantum technologies, data science and advanced engineering.
A New Model for International Collaboration
The Glasgow-Dublin proposal was itself historic. Rather than competing individually, Scotland and Ireland presented the first successful multinational bid in the congress's history.
Supported by more than 50 mathematical societies and professional organisations worldwide, the proposal demonstrated how neighbouring countries can combine research excellence, academic networks and governmental support to create a stronger international platform.
Around 6,000 mathematicians from across the globe are expected to attend the congress, with events taking place at Glasgow's Scottish Event Campus (SEC) and Dublin's Royal Dublin Society.
Professor Christoph Sorger, Secretary General of the International Mathematical Union, congratulated the organisers, expressing confidence that Glasgow and Dublin would deliver an "outstanding and influential programme of events."
2030: The Year of Mathematics
The successful bid has already produced an additional legacy. The governments of the United Kingdom and Irelandhave jointly designated 2030 as the Year of Mathematics, with nationwide programmes designed to celebrate the subject and encourage young people to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).
The initiative aims to demonstrate mathematics' growing importance across modern society—from scientific discovery and technological innovation to finance, engineering, cybersecurity and artificial intelligence.
Irish Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science James Lawless noted that mathematics not only drives innovation but also develops critical thinking and problem-solving skills that are increasingly valuable across every sector of the economy.
More Than a Scientific Conference
Held every four years, the International Congress of Mathematicians is regarded as the discipline's most prestigious global event. Beyond presenting cutting-edge research, it is where the mathematical community recognises its highest achievers through the award of the Fields Medals to outstanding mathematicians under the age of 40.
For universities, the congress serves as an important platform for international collaboration, talent development and research partnerships. For host cities, it offers a rare opportunity to showcase their academic ecosystems to the global scientific community.
By choosing Glasgow and Dublin, the IMU has recognised not only two cities with strong mathematical traditions, but also a new model of international cooperation. As higher education increasingly embraces cross-border collaboration, ICM 2030 may be remembered not simply for the mathematics presented, but for redefining how major global academic events can be organised.
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