Rotary International Convention: Taipei 2026

Over 37,000 Rotary members from around the world gathered in Taipei, Taiwan, for this year’s Rotary International Convention — the largest annual event in the Rotary calendar. Among them was Caroline Western Torgersen from Rotaract Oslo International, who joined more than 500 fellow rotaractors representing every corner of the globe.

Rotary Convention Opening Ceremony taking place in Taipei Dome

-“You really feel the scale of Rotary when you’re suddenly surrounded by thousands of people who all share the same values,” Caroline reflects. “It’s inspiring in a way that’s hard to describe.”

Thousands of Rotary members taking their seats in the Taipei Dome.

The convention opened with a spectacular ceremony featuring music, flags, and cultural performances, setting the tone for several days of learning and connection. General sessions highlighted Rotary’s global impact and featured prominent leaders, including special guest Malala Yousafzai, the youngest Nobel Peace Prize laureate.

-“Hearing Malala speak was a powerful moment,” Caroline says. “Knowing her father has been deeply involved in Rotary made her story feel even closer to home for us.”

A major attraction was the House of Friendship, a vibrant exhibition hall with more than 1,000 booths showcasing Rotary projects, fellowships, and initiatives from around the world.

At the House of Friendship

-“It was amazing to see how many opportunities exist within Rotary,” Caroline explains. “Whatever your interest is, there’s a fellowship for it — skiing, traveling, golfing, you name it. You just have to join.”

Beyond the formal program, the convention offered plenty of time to reconnect with old friends and meet new ones. Participants explored both the bustling streets of Taipei and the peaceful landscapes of the Taiwanese countryside.

Visiting the taiwanese countryside with other Rotaractors.

-“Those moments in between — sharing meals, discovering new places — they’re just as meaningful as the sessions themselves,” Caroline says. “And the food was incredible. We tried so many new dishes.”

Testing out the local Nightmarket with Rotaractors from Taipei and other countries.

With the energy from Taipei still fresh, preparations are already underway for the next Rotary International Convention. The global Rotary community will gather again in Barcelona, Spain, from 26–30th June 2027

-“After an experience like this, you can’t help but look forward to the next one,” Caroline adds with a smile.

If you are interessted in seeing some of the speakers go to this site

Read more about Barcelona here