5th Annual World Protocol Matters Conference 2026

• the founder of World Protocol Matters Conferences Inc., World Protocol School Ltd., World Protocol Magazine Inc. and President of the Association of International Protocol Professionals (OIPP), Nikoletta Hossó Ph.D.;
• the Director of International Centre for Protocol and Diplomacy – ICPD London, Founding President of the Association of Certified Protocol Professionals in Nigeria, Patricia Kenneth-Divine, and
• the Vice President for Continuing Education at Protocol & Diplomacy International – Protocol Officers Association / PDI-POA, USA, former Protocol Director of U.S. Space Force / U.S. Department of Defence and also Founding CEO of Myers & Associates, LLC, LaDonna L. Myers together with
• E. Saroja Sirisena, Fmr. Ambassador of Sri Lanka in Austria, Fmr. High Commissioner of Sri Lanka in the United Kingdom, Director Quest Consulting Strategic Advisory for Business and International Relations

are hereby delighted to announce the official venue of WPM2026: NGM DÜRER in Budapest, Ajtósi Dürer sor 21. (NGM is the abbreviation for Ministry for National Economy, the event will take place in a government building).

A Strategic Destination & Professional Partnership

Often referred to as the „Pearl of the Danube„, Budapest has unique blend of majestic elegance and forward-thinking innovation that provides an unparalleled backdrop for our theme: „The Future of Protocol and Diplomacy”.

The head organisers are honoured to announce that the Organisation of International Protocol Professionals (OIPP), as closest WPM partner in the joint UN mission, has joined to co-organise this event to ensure this unprecedented international protocol gathering ever hosted in the region, featuring high-ranking personalities and dignitaries will be a professional milestone in our field.

Enhanced Value and a Special Treat

While WPM together with OIPP continue to operate as nonprofit entities—meaning travel and accommodation remain self-funded for all—the selected venue offers distinct advantages. Budapest provides a highly sophisticated environment at a more accessible cost than other capitals in Europe. This is particularly beneficial for those traveling from great distances or staying for the intensive 2-day professional training following the conference.

Furthermore, as a token of appreciation, OIPP is preparing a special cultural treat exclusive to our international speakers and partners, designed to showcase the unique heritage and hospitality of Hungary in a memorable way.

Conference Target Audience:

• Educators, scholars, and researchers in international relations
• Members of the Diplomatic Corps accredited to Budapest
• Business leaders and executives leveraging soft power
• Newcomers to the field, including students and early-career professionals
• State and government representatives, protocol professionals, and NGO leaders
• Advocates and supporters of 11 May as World Protocol Day

Conference Theme @ Content

As military and economic tensions continue to challenge the established international order, soft power has become an increasingly essential instrument for fostering trust and long-term influence. As we highlighted at WPM 2025 Conference opened by Former President of the Republic of Austria, Co-Chair of the Ban Ki-moon Centre for Global Citizens, H.E. Dr. Heinz Fischer, protocol itself is a fundamental expression of soft power, a tool that supports UN Sustainability Goals. This year, we will broaden our focus to include the role of diplomacy & bilateral negotiations, and the relevance of multilateral co-operations and organisations, further enriching the scope of the conference.

Our speakers shall examine how a comprehensive institutional brand strategy—spanning business, culture, sustainability, innovation, communication, and even sports—can support international actors in navigating an ever more complex and volatile global landscape. In an era of rapid globalization and technological disruption, protocol remains the invisible architecture of international engagement. This new theme encapsulates how traditional diplomatic etiquette is evolving to meet contemporary challenges, ensuring seamless interactions amid geopolitical shifts, digital transformations, and cultural convergences.

Conference Participation & Format

• Due to security reasons, all guests, participants, and speakers entering the facility are required to complete an official registration process, which includes providing details of a valid government-issued photo ID. This mandatory procedure ensures that a log of all individuals on-site is maintained for safety and compliance purposes.
• The participation is free of charge and by invitation of the following entities: WPM head-organisers, OIPP, ICPD, Myers & Associates.
• On-site Identification: all entrants must provide photo identification, such as a passport or driver’s license upon arrival.
• Access Control: the process is designed to ensure that only authorized personnel and registered participants gain entry, enhancing the security of the building. The local organising committee reserves the right to approve participation based on the capacity of the event hall.
• Conference theme, location and all confirmed speakers will be announced via online platforms
• WPM Conference Programme will be indicated in local time
• High ranking officials are invited to deliver the Opening Addresses on 12^th May
• Morning and afternoon sessions on the 12^th and 13^th, between 9.00–12.00 and 13.00–16.30 local time
• Between sessions, coffee breaks and networking sandwich lunches will be offered on both days
• Depending on the final number of speakers, we offer 15–20-minute-speaking time each, and round-table discussions are also on the agenda
• All speakers will be announced and introduced by the MC