Ladies and gentlemen, dear colleagues,
On behalf of the German Society of Ophthalmology, I am delighted to invite you to the DOG Congress 2026, taking place from September 24-27, 2026, at the Estrel Congress Center in Berlin under the theme “Ophthalmology without Borders.”
In today’s world of rapid change, global upheaval, and technological innovation, the horizons of our field are also expanding. Where once clear boundaries existed between disciplines, sectors, or nations, new spaces for collaboration, synergies, and shared visions are emerging. Fueled by rapid scientific progress, interdisciplinary research, and international dialogue, modern ophthalmology stands as a living example of this dynamic development.
As President of the DOG and Chairman of the German Ophthalmological Chief Physicians (DOCH), I am particularly committed to bridging long-standing divides between clinics and private practices, research and clinical care, as well as medicine and our indispensable partners in industry and pharmacy, whose innovative strength is crucial for advancing ophthalmology.
The concept of an international “Ophthalmology without Borders” transcending sectors and professions, reflects a new self-image of our discipline, one that is embodied perfectly by the DOG itself: As the world’s oldest ophthalmological society and the central platform for scientific exchange in the German-speaking world, the DOG unites the majority of Germany’s ophthalmologists – around 8,400 members – across all professional settings, whether in practices, medical centers, university hospitals, public hospitals, or in research and healthcare. The DOG gives scientific ophthalmology both a face and a voice.
Over time, the DOG Congress has evolved into a leading meeting place for ophthalmologists from around the globe, particularly from across Europe. Initiatives such as the “International Experts Day” and a continuous series of English-language sessions highlight its international character, with Berlin serving as a truly fitting and vibrant host city.
In 2026, we will take this spirit of exchange one step further: Together with Europe’s leading subspecialty societies, we will jointly curate sessions that combine the highest scientific quality with a focus on the most pressing challenges and developments shaping ophthalmology today.
Furthermore, our congress provides a platform for partners from clinics, research, and industry to present innovative networks, cross-sector initiatives, and interdisciplinary projects that open new horizons and deliberately push beyond traditional boundaries.
We are also dedicated to fostering the next generation: young colleagues will benefit from tailored formats for international networking, exciting opportunities for research and training, and inspiration for career development in both science and clinical practice.
It is therefore both a great honor and a personal pleasure to invite you to join us at the DOG 2026.
I warmly look forward to your participation, your expertise and your contributions to a future of ophthalmology without borders.
With warm collegial regards
Prof. Dr. Lars-Olof Hattenbach, FEBO
President of the German Society of Ophthalmology (DOG)