Physiotherapists, clinicians, researchers, educators, regulators, students, and other health professionals gathered in New Delhi, India, on 26-27 September 2026 for the World Physiotherapy Asia Western Pacific (AWP) regional conference 2026, hosted by the Indian Association of Physiotherapists (IAP).
Held under the theme ’fitness for all: empowering communities, building inclusive health,’ the conference provided a platform for physiotherapy professionals to explore developments across clinical practice, education, and public health, while sharing knowledge and strengthening professional connections across the region.
With more than 10,000 participants in attendance, this event brought together international and national experts covering a wide range of areas in physiotherapy practice.
The conference followed the World Physiotherapy Asia Western Pacific region general meeting on 25 September, which was also held in New Delhi. The general meeting brought together representatives from 17 out of the 33 member organisations across the AWP region, offering an opportunity to reflect on the region’s achievements over the past two years and look ahead to the projects and priorities planned for 2027.
Building inclusive health through physiotherapy
Improving access to physiotherapy and supporting healthier, more inclusive communities were central pillars of the conference. The theme reflected a focus on bridging gaps in access and knowledge and supporting physiotherapists to deliver contextually relevant care. The programme created opportunities to consider how physiotherapy can respond to changing population and community needs.
The conference objectives also emphasised the exchange of clinical expertise, research and innovation in rehabilitation sciences, alongside international collaboration in physiotherapy education and practice. These discussions were particularly relevant to the breadth and diversity of the AWP region, which brings together thirty-three member organisations from across the Middle East, Asia, and the Pacific, to foster greater collaboration and the development of the profession at a regional level.
One participant on social media said: 'with the theme 'fitness for all,’ the conference had a strong focus on health equity. Connecting with physiotherapy leaders from other countries is a valuable opportunity to share ideas and learn from different health systems.'
Strengthening connections across the Asia Western Pacific region
Scientific exchange formed an important part of the conference programme. Through research presentations, keynote lectures, panel discussions, workshops, and interactive sessions, participants had opportunities to share knowledge and explore developments across physiotherapy.
The programme was designed for physiotherapists at various stages of their professional development and covered a broad spectrum of physiotherapy practice.
Beyond the scientific programme, the conference provided an important opportunity to bring together members of the profession from across a geographically and culturally diverse region.
Collaboration is a central part of the work of the World Physiotherapy AWP region, and the conference in New Delhi provided a fantastic setting for that collaboration to continue; enabling participants to exchange experiences, build professional relationships, and consider shared opportunities for the future of physiotherapy.
Reflecting on the experience, another participant on social media said: 'what a colourful, informative, culturally rich [and] positive experience it has been.'
The conference's theme reinforced the message that advancing physiotherapy is not only about developing knowledge and clinical practice, but also about ensuring that communities can benefit from accessible and inclusive approaches to health and rehabilitation.
Find out more about the World Physiotherapy Asia Western Pacific region
