English version
Horse Welfare Summit 2026
Horse–Human Interactions
15–16 September 2026 | Flyinge, Sweden
Organisers: Swedish Equestrian Centres of Excellence – Flyinge & Strömsholm
Where research meets practice – for the benefit of the horse
Horse Welfare Summit (HWS) is an international conference and a recurring meeting place for everyone who wants to contribute to a more knowledge-based, sustainable and responsible development of equine welfare.
The second edition of HWS brings together researchers, educators and professionals from across the equine sector around a shared focus: the interaction between horse and human.
Over two days at Flyinge, we explore how human factors such as biomechanics, communication, language and our own inner balance influence equine welfare in training, education, handling and everyday management.
Why Horse–Human Interactions?
Equine welfare is shaped in the meeting between horse and human – every day, in every situation. By focusing on this interaction, HWS 2026 creates a shared knowledge base for the future education of riders and horses, as well as for the design of the horse’s environment. The conference highlights:
- how horses perceive and respond to human signals
- the biomechanical impact of riders and trainers on the horse
- communication, learning processes and the use of aids
- the role of language – how the words we use shape our perception of the horse
- mental balance, self-leadership and human factors
- welfare implications in training, competition, education and daily management
- how the horse’s environment influences the horse and the horse–human interaction
Two Tracks – One Summit
Horse Welfare Summit 2026 is a two-day conference in which Day 1 and Day 2 are aimed at different target groups, while sharing common themes and direction.
Day 1 – Research & Science
The first day is a scientific conference day featuring international keynote speakers, lectures, poster presentations and structured discussions. It is primarily aimed at researchers, academics, educators and teachers within equine-related education, as well as organisations, federations and decision-makers. HWS provides an international arena for knowledge exchange, visibility and dialogue between research, education and practice.
The call for abstracts for the scientific conference day opens in February 2026. Further information will be published here.
Day 1 concludes with an evening clinic that serves as a bridge between research and practice.
Day 2 – Practice, Education & Application
The second day focuses on application, dialogue and practical examples for professionals working in education and training. It is primarily aimed at trainers, riding instructors, riders, young horse trainers and professional riders. The content is designed to strengthen decision-making, communication and equine welfare in everyday professional practice.
Practical information
Location: Flyinge, Sweden
Dates: 15–16 September 2026
Call for abstracts opens: February 2026
Registration for Day 1 opens: April 2026
Programme published: Spring 2026
Tickets for the clinic and Day 2 released: May 2026
