ISO Annual Meeting 2023 in review

Meeting global needs together

In an era defined by rapid change, the ISO Annual Meeting 2023 was a unique opportunity for meaningful discussion and truly global collaboration.

This year’s edition gathered business and industry leaders alongside government officials and innovators from every region of the world, as well as youth representatives. The event in Brisbane, Australia, served as a platform to harmonize voices, leverage technology and prioritize sustainability in the pursuit of a better future for all.

The five-day event covered critical topics including the climate crisis, cybersecurity and artificial intelligence. Dynamic and thought-provoking sessions highlighted the pivotal role of International Standards in meeting our world’s most pressing needs and accelerating progress towards our most ambitious goals.

Over 7000 participants gathered online and 500 more attended in person

Hailing from over 170 countries, this global audience represented a vast range of industries, governments, geographies and backgrounds.

Find all the week's highlights, including daily summaries, recap videos, photo galleries and session recordings, on our dedicated ISO Annual Meeting 2023 page.

544

in-person participants

7 225

online participants*

42

sessions and workshops

107

speakers

5.5 M

total media reach

177

countries

Watch the event recap

Resonating themes

Read more about the key topics discussed during the week.

Sustainability and climate

Working together to address the challenges of climate change and advance environmental sustainability, panellists agreed on the need to combine traditional wisdom with new technologies and innovation. Standards can act as the bridge between these two worlds.

Technology

Rapid advancements in AI, the metaverse and tech convergence present unique challenges and opportunities for the standards world. Leading experts shared their insights to help prepare us for what’s to come.

Policy, trade and trust

The vital theme of trust resonated across discussions on trade and anti-corruption. Two new ISO toolkits – ISO Policy Toolkit and ISO Climate Action Toolkit – will help close the gap between governments and the standards community. 

Memorable moments

This year’s LDE Award went to the trailblazing committee on AI, celebrating their effective leadership and innovation, while promising standards talent Neema Msemwa from Tanzania took the 2023 Next Generation Award.

Diversity and inclusion

Participants explored new ways of bringing greater diversity and inclusivity to standards. Thinking beyond a one-size-fits-all approach will ensure we remain relevant and our standards work for everyone.

Networking and social aspects

It is in conversations that momentum for true change is born. The inaugural “Unplugged Corner” offered a chance to connect on topics during coffee breaks and lunches.