Scientists skip key US meetings – and seize on smaller alternatives (www.nature.com)

Recent trends show a decline in attendance at major scientific conferences in the U.S., with some organizers attributing this to restrictive travel policies implemented during the Trump administration. Notably, the NeurIPS AI conference expanded its reach by hosting an additional venue in Mexico City, while European researchers launched EurIPS in Copenhagen to provide alternatives for those unable or unwilling to navigate the current U.S. travel landscape. These developments reflect a need for accessible spaces where the global scientific community can connect, particularly under increased scrutiny and barriers faced by international attendees. The implications for the AI and broader scientific community are significant, as reduced attendance can hinder collaboration, sharing of innovative ideas, and networking opportunities. With major conferences like the Society for Neuroscience and the American Geophysical Union reporting lower numbers, the challenge lies in maintaining global participation in research dialogues. Factors influencing these decisions include heightened visa scrutiny and socio-political concerns affecting the comfort of attending scientists, which could shape the future structure and location of key conferences, potentially leading to a more decentralized approach to scientific gatherings.