International Council of Ophthalmology

The International Council of Ophthalmology (ICO) represents and serves professional associations of ophthalmologists throughout the world.

The roots of the ICO date back to 1857 when 150 ophthalmologists from 24 countries convened in Brussels for the first World Ophthalmology Congress. Participants in the Congress founded the ICO in 1927 in Scheveningen, Holland.

Mission The International Council of Ophthalmology works with ophthalmologic societies and others to enhance ophthalmic education and improve access to the highest quality eye care in order to preserve and restore vision for the people of the world.

World Alliance for Sight The ICO is working to build a “World Alliance for Sight” by leading, stimulating, and supporting the efforts of ophthalmologic societies, eye departments, and related organizations worldwide to enhance ophthalmic education and eye care.