From September 8 to 10, 2026, the Slovenian capital hosted the 17th Annual HEPA Europe Conference, bringing together global experts to advance the agenda on health-enhancing physical activity. The European University Sports Association (EUSA), having recently formalised its membership in the WHO HEPA Europe network, was proud to be actively represented at this premier public health event.

Hosted by the National Institute of Public Health (NIJZ) and supported by key local stakeholders, the conference ran under the theme Green Pathways to Health: Integrating Green Spaces and 24-Hour Movement Behaviours for Combating Noncommunicable Diseases. The event delivered a clear and urgent message: human health relies on a holistic 24-hour perspective.

Discussions centered on the fact that while regular, structured physical activity is vital, it cannot fully compensate for the negative impacts of prolonged sedentary behaviour and chronic sleep deprivation. Furthermore, experts emphasized the critical role of our built and natural environment. The integration of accessible green spaces, safe infrastructure for active mobility, especially walking and cycling, and available recreational areas are fundamental to making healthy choices a natural part of daily life.

The 2026 edition of the conference saw strong international participation and engagement. Approximately 450 participants registered for the event, representing practically all continents, with a robust majority of European researchers, policymakers, and practitioners.

The comprehensive scientific programme featured 4 pre-conference workshops, 25 symposia, and 220 abstract presentations delivered through plenary and parallel sessions over the course of three days. The programme also featured demonstrations of physical activity, fostered active networking and cross-sectoral exchange, complemented by a traditional Slovenian evening linking local culture and cuisine.

Following the conclusion of the international HEPA Europe programme, a dedicated Slovenian expert consultation took place. This national session focused on practical strategies to improve population nutrition and physical activity. A key highlight of this consultation was the introduction and presentation of a proposed new national program dedicated to nutrition and physical activity for health.

For EUSA, participation in the HEPA Europe conference marks an important milestone as an official member of the network. This engagement aligns seamlessly with EUSA's ongoing initiatives, including active involvement in the European Week of Sport (#BeActive) and the International Day of University Sport (#LetsIDUS) campaigns. EUSA remains committed to championing physical activity, reducing sedentary time, and promoting holistic well-being across university campuses in Europe. The upcoming European Students Run initiative will bring together over 2,500 student runners this October in Ljubljana, and the Cycle2Connect challenge locally activating students across Europe. Newly confirmed projects co-funded by the European Union: Step-Walk-Run and TRACES, with the EUSA Institute as lead applicant will further champion physical activity and community engagement.

EUSA looks forward to continuing its active role within the HEPA Europe network and at the 18th HEPA Europe Conference, which is set to take place in Lleida, Spain, in October 2027, hosted by the National Institute of Physical Education of Catalonia (INEFC) and the University of Lleida.

For more information, please see https://www.who.int/europe/, https://hepa2026.si and https://hepa2027inefc.com.