Key Events at ESCRS 2025 in Copenhagen

The European Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons (ESCRS) is set to return with its annual congress, this time in the vibrant city of Copenhagen from 12–16 September 2025. The congress will bring together the global ophthalmology community for a week filled with cutting-edge science, hands-on training, and impactful networking. Here are five program highlights you won’t want to miss.

1. ESCRS iNovation® Day: Where Technology Meets Clinical Need

The ESCRS iNovation® Day will begin on Friday, 12 September, highlighting technologies and solutions aimed at addressing unmet needs in anterior segment care. Covering topics from emerging diagnostics to surgical advancements, the session will include perspectives from innovators, startup leaders, and established industry representatives. It is intended for attendees interested in current developments in ophthalmic innovation.

2. ESCRS Arena – Valhalla: A Dynamic Learning Experience

A new addition to the 2025 program is the ESCRS Arena – Valhalla, a thematic space that will feature surgical pearls, interactive debates, and expert forums throughout the weekend. Sessions will cover topics such as refractive IOLs, presbyopic solutions, and complex cataract surgery, offering an educational format that incorporates audience participation.

3. The World Café: Small-Group Learning, Big-Impact Topics

Scheduled for Sunday, 14 September, the World Café will feature a discussion-based format at the congress. Participants will have the opportunity to join small, informal groups facilitated by expert moderators to examine key clinical topics, including presbyopia, corneal surgery, and the management of complications in cataract procedures.

4. Subspecialty Days: Focused Learning for Every Interest

The opening day of the congress will also feature multiple subspecialty tracks, offering in-depth education in collaboration with leading societies:

• Cornea Day (with EUCornea)

• Glaucoma Day (with EGS)

• WSPOS Day (World Society of Paediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus)

• The Global Refractive Summit (a joint initiative with ISRS and BRASCRS)

These sessions provide targeted content focused on specific clinical domains and are intended to support ophthalmologists in refining their subspecialist skills.

5. Simulation Training Lab & Charity 5K: Learning and Giving Back

The ESCRS Simulation Training Lab will offer hands-on, practical training supported by Haag-Streit and Alcon. Free to delegates but limited in capacity, the lab provides an opportunity to practice surgical techniques in a low-risk setting.

The annual ESCRS 5K Charity Run/Walk, scheduled for Saturday, 13 September, provides an opportunity to contribute to ESCRS charity initiatives while taking part in an outdoor activity through Copenhagen’s natural reserves. Participants will receive a commemorative T-shirt, hydration support, and a digital certificate.

ESCRS 2025 in Copenhagen will feature a diverse program that includes scientific content, emerging innovations, and community-focused activities, positioning it as a notable event in the ophthalmology calendar.