GUIDELINES
Conference dates: 19-21 August 2026, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
The International Institute for the Study of Nomadic Civilizations under the auspices of UNESCO (IISNC), in collaboration with partner institutions and networks, is organizing an international, interdisciplinary conference titled Nomadic Futures: Cultural Rights, Knowledge Systems, Climate Resilience, to be held on 19-21 August 2026. Coinciding with COP17 to the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) and the United Nations International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists (IYRP), this conference will critically examine the status of cultural rights and political recognition for mobile pastoralists and nomadic peoples. Cultural rights, ways of knowing and climate resilience will be explored as integrated elements rather than separate spheres.
This conference responds directly to the recommendations in the 2024 report on the Situation of Mobile Indigenous Peoples written by the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples by creating an interdisciplinary platform to examine the legal recognition, cultural rights, mobility, land tenure, and political participation of mobile Indigenous Peoples. In particular, the conference seeks to advance dialogue around the report’s calls for stronger protections for customary territorial rights, transboundary mobility, culturally grounded education, free, prior and informed consent, and the recognition of mobile Indigenous Peoples’ ways of knowing and governance practices as essential to cultural survival. The conference, therefore, seeks to provide a platform for the discussion of rights-based approaches to mobility, cultural heritage, and climate resilience
Conference Venue
International Institute for the Study of Nomadic Civilizations (IISNC)
Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
The conference will take place at IISNC and partner venues located in central Ulaanbaatar.
August 19-21 at National University of Mongolia
Detailed venue maps, transportation information, and access instructions will be provided to registered participants.
Program at a Glance
Opening Ceremony, Keynote Sessions
19 August 2026
Parallel Panels and Thematic Sessions
20 August 2026
Roundtables, Closing Session
21 August 2026
World Nomad Cultural Festival and Optional Tours
22–24 August 2026
Accommodation Information
Participants are responsible for arranging their own accommodation unless otherwise specified. We advise to book your hotel early as possible. Special conference rates may be available at selected hotels.
Recommended Hotels
Luxury Category
Mid-Range Category
Budget Category
Getting to Ulaanbaatar
Chinggis Khaan International Airport is Mongolia’s primary international gateway and is located approximately 50 km south of central Ulaanbaatar.
By Taxi
- Travel time: 45–60 minutes
- Estimated fare: 80,000-120,000 MNT
- Official airport taxis operate 24 hours
By Public Bus
- Travel time: 60-90 minutes
- Cost: approximately 10,000–15,000 MNT
- Connect the airport with the city center
Airport Transfer Services
- Several hotels offer airport pick-up services upon request.
- Official airport taxis operate 24 hours
Visa Information
Participants are strongly encouraged to check Mongolia’s visa requirements well in advance.
Invitation Letters
Official invitation letters will be issued upon request after conference registration and acceptance.
Please Note
Additional visa guidance will be provided on the conference website.
- Organizers cannot guarantee visa approval.
- Participants are responsible for visa application costs.
- Visa processing times vary by country.
Currency and Payments
Currency
Mongolian Tögrög (MNT)
Mobile Connectivity
Participants may purchase local SIM cards at the airport or throughout Ulaanbaatar. Major telecommunications providers include:
Banking
- ATMs are widely available.
- Major hotels and restaurants accept international credit cards.
- Currency exchange services are available at banks and the airport.
Health and Emergency Information
Emergency Numbers
Health Services
Several international-standard hospitals and clinics are located in Ulaanbaatar.
Participants are strongly encouraged to obtain comprehensive travel insurance before arrival.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a visa to enter Mongolia?
Visa requirements vary by nationality. Please consult the nearest Mongolian diplomatic mission.
How can I obtain an invitation letter?
Invitation letters will be issued after registration and acceptance.
What airport should I fly into?
Chinggis Khaan International Airport (UBN).
Are meals included?
Conference lunches and coffee breaks will be provided.
Can accompanying family members attend social events?
Information regarding accompanying persons will be provided during registration.
Will interpretation services be available?
Details regarding interpretation services will be announced closer to the conference.
How can I attend the World Nomad Cultural Festival?
Festival participation information will be provided to registered conference participants.
We look forward to welcoming participants from around the world to Ulaanbaatar for a meaningful dialogue on cultural rights, Indigenous knowledge systems, nomadic futures, and climate resilience.
IISNC-UNESCO
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