The 18th International Forum on Urbanism (IFoU) will be held at Tsinghua University from October 16 to 19, 2026. Founded in 2006, IFoU is a leading international academic network composed of top universities, research institutions, and think tanks worldwide. As one of its three founding members, Tsinghua University hosted the inaugural conference in 2006. On the occasion of IFoU’s 20th anniversary, the forum returns to Tsinghua, hosted by the School of Architecture, extending a sincere invitation to scholars, practitioners, and policymakers worldwide to engage in an in-depth dialogue on “Urbanism and AI for Better Human Settlements.”

Conference Theme: Urbanism & AI For Better Human Settlements

The theme is structured around a threepart conceptual progression—Reflection, Recreation, and Regeneration—forming a coherent framework for critical inquiry and forwardlooking practice.

• Reflection：a deep and collective reflection on two decades of urban discourse in light of accelerating technological change, questioning established paradigms and confronting new ethical and social challenges.

• Re-creation：methodologies, planning tools, and design visions that can harness AI's potential responsibly.

• Regeneration：translate insight into action for urban spaces, ecologies, and social fabrics toward greater resilience, equity, and humanity.

Five Tracks: Exploring Multidimensional Human Settlements in the Age of AI

The conference features five tracks, examining the synergistic interplay between technology and the humanities:

1. Integrating: Urban–Rural Coordination and Regional Development

2. Preserving: Cultural Heritage and Ecological Diversity

3. Engaging: Inclusive Housing and Community Development

4. Responding: Smart Governance and Climate Resilience

5. Shaping: Design Thinking and AI Empowerment

Call for Papers: The 18th IFoU Conference 2026 is now open for global submissions. We sincerely invite researchers, scholars, and practitioners to submit original abstracts aligned with the five thematic tracks outlined above.

1. Language Requirement: All abstracts must be written in English, and conference presentations will also be conducted in English.

2. Length and Format: Abstracts should not exceed 500 words (excluding references, title, and keywords). Submissions must be in Microsoft Word format (.doc or .docx).

3. Abstract Requirements: Each submission must include the following components:

· Title: Concise and clearly reflecting the core of the research;

· Author Information: Full names, institutional affiliations, and email addresses of all authors (please clearly indicate the presenting author);

· Abstract Body: Structured format including Context, Objectives, Methodology, Key Findings/Expected Results, and Relevance to the Conference Themes;

· Keywords: 3–5 keywords;

· References: 3–5 key references situating the research;

· Visual Material: At least one image, figure, chart, or model diagram supporting the core argument of the abstract (authors must hold the rights for publication).

4. Submission Method: All submissions will be managed through the EasyChair system. Please visit the conference website (https://ifou2026.com), navigate to the Contribute section under Call for Abstracts, and click “Click Here for Submission” to access the EasyChair platform for abstract and full paper submission.

Important Dates

April 30, 2026 | Abstract Submission Deadline

May 15, 2026 | Notification of Abstract Acceptance

June 1, 2026 | Registration Opens

July 1, 2026 | Early-Bird Registration Deadline

August 15, 2026 | Full Paper Submission Deadline

September 30, 2026 | Registration Closes

October 16–19, 2026 | Conference Dates

More Information

For more information about the IFoU 2026 International Conference, please visit the official website at https://ifou2026.com or contact us via email at 2026ifou@tsinghua.edu.cn.