AUCKLAND, New Zealand—The International Corrections and Prisons Association (ICPA) has announced the launch of its inaugural International Research in Corrections Conference (IRCC), to be held in Auckland, New Zealand, from March 2–5, 2026.
Co-hosted with Ara Poutama Aotearoa – Department of Corrections of New Zealand, IRCC 2026 represents a pivotal moment for the global corrections community, uniting research and real-world practice to advance safer environments, rehabilitation, and reintegration strategies worldwide.
A Vision for Evidence-Informed Corrections
Under the theme “What Works in Corrections: Research Driving Safe Environments, Rehabilitation, and Reintegration,” the conference will bring together researchers, practitioners, policymakers, and people with lived experience to bridge the gap between theory and application.
“This conference isn’t just about sharing research—it’s about shaping the future of how that research transforms practice,” said organizers. “We want to create a space where evidence meets experience and innovation is grounded in real-world challenges.”
Why IRCC 2026 Matters
The IRCC will spotlight evidence-based approaches that have proven effective in corrections systems globally. Attendees can expect to:
- Engage with leading international researchers and practitioners.
- Explore new rehabilitation and reintegration models.
- Share their own findings with a highly engaged global audience.
- Learn from diverse perspectives—from academia to frontline experience.
- Participate in collaborative workshops and panels tackling systemic challenges in corrections and reentry.
- Influence the future direction of global corrections research and policy.
Conference Format and Highlights
Over four days, IRCC 2026 will feature:
- Plenary sessions with global thought leaders
- Concurrent workshop tracks focused on four core sub-themes
- Interactive panel discussions exploring complex policy and practice intersections
- Poster presentations spotlighting emerging and early-career research
- Networking sessions designed to spark international collaboration
- Optional site visits to innovative New Zealand correctional facilities
Key Dates and Registration
- Early Bird Registration Deadline: December 15, 2025
- Conference Dates: March 2–5, 2026
Early Bird Rates:
- Public Sector, NGO, Academic: $450 USD
- Standard: $575 USD
- Group (10+ attendees): $450 USD per person
Regular Rates (after Dec 15, 2025):
- Public Sector, NGO, Academic: $550 USD
- Standard: $675 USD
- Group (10+ attendees): $450 USD per person
All registrations include full access to sessions, conference materials, coffee breaks, and networking events.
For public sector, NGO, or academic discounts, contact Grail Mageean at grailmageean@icpa.org.
Venue and Accommodation
The conference will be hosted at the Pullman Auckland Hotel, which will also offer exclusive delegate rates of NZD 299 per night for Superior Rooms (valid March 1–5, 2026).
A Catalyst for Global Collaboration
With its focus on connecting data-driven insights to humane, effective correctional practice, IRCC 2026 signals a new era in justice design and systems innovation—one where collaboration and evidence shape the path toward safer, more rehabilitative environments.
For more details, visit www.ICPA.org.
