The FIR on the Road to the 20th Congress

24. August 2026

The year 2026 is of great significance for the FIR. This past summer marked the 75th anniversary of its founding, and the 20th regular congress is scheduled to take place in Lisbon in November. On the occasion of the Congress, to be held November 6–8, 2026, in Lisbon, there will be a commemorative ceremony to mark this anniversary, during which the Michel Vanderborght Award—the FIR’s highest honor—will be presented to individuals and initiatives from nine European countries.

The congress itself will focus primarily on a vision for the future of anti-fascist work after 75 years of active engagement. Over a year ago, we published the special edition “Anti-Fascism Today and Tomorrow,” featuring statements from various member organizations. It focuses in particular on involving younger generations in this work and passing on the historical legacy under today’s conditions.

In early July, the FIR’s Executive Committee met to prepare for the upcoming regular congress. The goal was to debate the key points of the congress’s agenda, which is intended to formulate a vision for the future after 75 years of joint work. As a visible sign of the inclusion of today’s generations, the Executive Committee recommended that all member associations able to send more than one delegate also consider including younger members. Only those who have gotten to know the FIR firsthand can truly appreciate why this umbrella organization remains relevant for the future. Guests from Portugal as well as from international contexts are expected to attend the congress. Given the limited time available for this meeting, only a few will have the opportunity to deliver their greetings to the delegates in person.

It was emphasized once again that all member associations that have paid the minimum dues for the past two years have the right to send a delegate with voting rights. Larger member associations send two people, and large organizations send a maximum of three representatives. Member associations must cover the costs of travel and lodging for their delegates themselves. Since hotel rooms must be reserved for overnight stays—including those of guests—a confirmation of registration by September is required.

Through our activities to date—including statements, conferences, and international meetings—we have demonstrated that remembrance work and current political issues shape our work in equal measure. To send a clear message in this spirit in Portugal as well, the delegates and guests of the congress, in cooperation with the Portuguese member association URAP, will hold a commemorative event on Sunday at the Peniche Prison Fortress Memorial, which was redesigned in 2024.