While the World Library and Information Congress will not be taking place this year, IFLA still plans to hold its General Assembly, in line with its statutes, later this year. In a message to IFLA Members, IFLA Secretary General Gerald Leitner set out next steps towards defining a date.

As you will know, WLIC 2020, due to be held in Dublin, has been cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic which is affecting countries across the world.  As a consequence, this year’s General Assembly, which would normally have been held during WLIC, will need to be re-arranged.

In accordance with Motion 11.1, which was approved at the General Assembly held in Athens on Wednesday 28 August 2019, “In the case of an unavoidable delay the General Assembly may be convened at a later date, but no later than 30 November 2020”.

You will be aware that the current situation regarding COVID-19 is still very fluid. Travel restrictions and levels of risk to health vary from country to country, and change very frequently.  The Governing Board, who are responsible for setting the date of the General Assembly, are regularly monitoring the situation. 

Reflecting this, they will make a decision on the rescheduling of the General Assembly, and will share this with Members no later than the first half of July 2020.

As a consequence, the closing date for items to be submitted for inclusion in the agenda of the General Assembly – previously set for 11 May – will be extended.  The new closing date for these items will be announced at the same time as the date of the rescheduled General Assembly, giving a final opportunity to submit items

Shortly after the closing date for motions the formal Convening Notice for the General Assembly will be issued, giving three months’ notice of the meeting.  The notice will include the agenda alongside the rules and provisions on proxy voting for those unable to attend in person.

 

Gerald Leitner

IFLA Secretary General