CongRegation conference returns for its 14th year

From the reliability of online information and artificial intelligence to confidence in public institutions and personal relationships, trust will be the central theme of CongRegation 2026, taking place in Cong, Mayo, from November 27 to 29.

Now in its 14th year, the three-day unconference is inviting people from across Ireland and beyond to share their experiences, ideas and perspectives on trust. Submissions are currently open, with organisers encouraging contributions from people of all backgrounds, including those who may not traditionally participate in conferences.

Around 100 participants are expected to attend the main programme on Saturday, November 28, when ideas submitted in advance will form the basis of informal, small-group discussions known as huddles.

Unlike a traditional conference, CongRegation places participants and their contributions at the centre of the event. Discussions take place in venues throughout Cong village, bringing together people from business, technology, academia, the arts and the wider community to exchange views, challenge assumptions and explore different perspectives.

Organiser Eoin Kennedy said the theme offered an opportunity to examine an issue that affects almost every aspect of daily life.

“Trust is something we all depend on, often without thinking about it until it is tested or broken. We want to hear from people with different experiences and viewpoints. A personal story, a question or an idea that makes others think differently can be just as valuable as an expert perspective,” he said.

Contributions are not limited to traditional written articles. While written submissions must be at least 600 words, organisers also welcome poems, songs, audio and video recordings, artwork and other creative responses to the theme. All submissions are published on the event website, allowing participants to explore the ideas in advance of the gathering.

The organisers are particularly keen to hear from people who might not normally consider contributing to a conference. Possible topics include how relationships are built and repaired, confidence in public institutions, trust in business, the reliability of AI and online information, and the balance between trust and scepticism.

Participants are encouraged to draw on personal experiences, observations and questions, with the aim of generating a broad conversation rather than seeking a single answer to what trust means in modern society.

The weekend will open on Friday, November 27, with Trust Tales at Ashford Castle. The opening event will feature four speakers examining trust from different perspectives.

Daragh O’Brien will explore trust, truth and governance, while Michael Comyn will discuss trust as a skill. Economist Jim Power will consider the role of trust in economics, markets and finance, and Dr Jennifer Scott will examine the challenges involved in earning trust.

The wider programme will include workshops, social events and opportunities for participants to continue conversations beyond the formal sessions. By combining structured discussions with informal networking, CongRegation aims to create an environment where people can share experiences, develop ideas and make unexpected connections.

Participation is based on having a contribution accepted on the annual theme rather than purchasing a conventional conference ticket. Prospective participants are encouraged to explore the questions surrounding the theme and read existing submissions for inspiration before submitting their own work.

CongRegation 2026 takes place in Cong, Mayo, from November 27 to 29. Further information about the theme and submission process is available at www.congregation.ie/theme and www.congregation.ie/submit-2.