Value proposition

The International Council of Ophthalmology (ICO) works with ophthalmologic societies and others to enhance ophthalmic education and improve access to the highest quality eye care in order to preserve and restore vision for the people of the world.

The roots of the ICO date back to 1857 when 150 ophthalmologists from 24 countries convened in Brussels for the first World Ophthalmology Congress.

The World Ophthalmology Congress® (WOC) of the International Council of Ophthalmology is one of the ICO's primary initiatives. The WOC is held in a different region of the World every two years and provides an international audience of ophthalmologists with:

1. A scientific program addressing all subspecialties and related interests in ophthalmology
2. The opportunity to network with recognized international leaders and professionals
3. An exhibition featuring the latest products and services in the field.

Revenues from the World Ophthalmology Congress support a wide range of ICO initiatives and programs and its commitment to “Building a World Alliance for Sight.”

Learn more about the WOC: icoph.org/WOC

The ICO's Principal Commitments:

– Enhancing ophthalmic education, particularly training of ophthalmologists and other eye care personnel to meet public needs in developing countries.

– Stimulating and supporting communication and collaboration among ophthalmologic societies and ophthalmologists globally and their involvement in initiatives to preserve vision.

– Defining and disseminating proposed standards and guidelines in order to enhance eye care.

– Stimulating research to eradicate preventable blindness.

– Raising awareness worldwide of the economic, social and personal impact of vision loss and advocating for increased funding and other support for preservation and restoration of vision.

ICO Guidelines for Diabetic Eye Care, Enhancing Ophthalmic Education Around the World, Ophthalmic Society Development, and World Ophthalmology Congress