The location of the International Animal Rights Conference, held in Luxembourg’s Kulturfabrik for the last 13 years, faces uncertainty as the current venue will undergo renovation in 2027.

One of the stalls rooms of the IARC in Kulturfabrik, photo Jordi Casamitjana

Luxembourg, September 22nd, 2025 — During the International Animal Rights Conference (IARC) held for its 13^th time in Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg, from September 4 to September 7, 2025, activists learned that organizers are looking for a new site from 2027. This is because the current iconic venue will undergo major reformations. For more than a decade, the event has been held at the Kulturfabrik, a former slaughterhouse turned cultural center. This symbolic venue has deeply resonated with participants who see such transformations as central to their cause. But with renovations looming in 2027, this important conference could end up being held in a different country. Where will animal rights advocates meet next?

A Venue with Powerful Symbolism

Slaughterhouse relics from Kulturfabrik, photo Jordi Casamitjana

Since 2012, the International Animal Rights Conference has been defined by its location. The Kulturfabrik, once a slaughterhouse that closed in 1979, now embodies rebellion and defiance. Although the buildings have changed a lot, there are still relics from that horrible past, in the form of chains and hooks on the ceiling where the bodies of dead pigs were hung, or the metal rails that were used as conveyor systems to move them around.

For participants at the conference, this convergence of history and hope is part of the IARC’s identity. Activists feel empowered gathering in a space once marked by violence but now transformed into a hub of liberation. That symbolism has kept them returning year after year. Yet, with renovations scheduled to begin in 2027, the conference must seek new ground. The shift may mean losing the poetic resonance of the Kulturfabrik, but it also offers the chance to redefine the event’s meaning.

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The 2025 IARC

One of the talks at the IARC 2025, photo Jordi Casamitjana

Over the four days of the 2025 conference, participants had the chance to enjoy a great program that included talks, workshops, debates, morning stretching, plenaries, interactive sessions, movies, concerts, karaoke, an animal rights quiz, and many vegan meals. Booths representing various animal rights organizations and vegan shops were open throughout, offering opportunities for learning, networking, and community-building.

This year’s line-up featured an impressive array of speakers, reflecting the diversity and global reach of the animal rights movement. Among them, Mandesa Crevelle from Trinidad and Tobago, founder of the Magnolia Advocacy and Charity Foundation; John Oberg from the US, a long-standing campaigner focusing on digital advocacy; Antonia Gefahrt, a psychologist from Germany, focusing on communication strategies for vegan advocacy; Evelien Devriese from Belgium, founder of Daisyfields Animal Sanctuary; and Martin Balluch, animal activist since 1985, founder of the Austrian Vegan Society.

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The Work Behind the Gathering

Inclusivity sign at IARC, photo Jordi Casamitjana

The smooth running of the International Animal Rights Conference is the result of tireless volunteer work. Heiko, one of the members of the Orga team (the organizers), explained: “I’ve been part of the organizer team since the start, in 2011. I’m taking care of the general organizational topics, making sure that the email communications work, and planning all the tasks.” From its humble beginnings, the event has grown into a global hub of strategy and solidarity.

Inclusivity is at the heart of the IARC. Its code of conduct makes clear: “At the International Animal Rights Conference, there is no room for any kind of discriminating behavior, including, but not limited to racism, sexism, discrimination based on religion or belief, anti-trans, anti-inter*, anti-homo behavior!”  This commitment has helped the event become a safe and welcoming space for all voices in the animal rights movement. The emphasis on diversity ensures it reflects the progressive values central to vegan advocacy.

Recent years have also brought innovation. In 2025, organizers expanded programming online, enabling activists worldwide to join virtually. While physical attendance dipped slightly, accessibility grew significantly. Hybrid models may shape the IARC’s future, particularly if the new 2027 venue is smaller or located in a less accessible area. The Orga team will likely continue balancing inclusivity, cost, and practicality — ensuring the event remains true to its grassroots spirit.

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Searching for a New Home

IARC organisers announcing the search for new venue, photo Jordi Casamitjana

The biggest uncertainty now lies in 2027. Heiko confirmed: “We will also be doing it here again from the 3rd to the 6th of September 2026, but right now, it looks like we cannot do it anymore in 2027.” Renovations at the Kulturfabrik will make the site unavailable, forcing organizers to search for a new location. Their requirements include multiple rooms, a kitchen, reliable transport links, and affordability.

Funding poses a significant challenge. As Heiko explained: “We tried to keep the conference as low-budget as possible, right from the start, so that we don’t depend on any big sponsors.” This independence has preserved the IARC’s authenticity, but it also limits options. Finding a venue that meets both practical and ethical standards at a reasonable cost will be no small task. Still, the Orga team has proven resourceful over the years, building resilience through collective effort.

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