International Association of Ophthalmology (IAO)

Article I – Name and Legal Status

The official name of this organization shall be the International Association of Ophthalmology (IAO), hereinafter referred to as ‘the Association’. The Association is an independent, non-profit, non-political, and non-religious international academic organization established for scientific, educational, and public welfare purposes.

Article II – Mission and Objectives

Mission: The Association aims to advance global ophthalmic science, clinical innovation, and eye health.

Objectives:

1. Promote research, education, and innovation in ophthalmology and vision science.
2. Facilitate international cooperation and exchange.
3. Organize conferences and training programs.
4. Publish journals, newsletters, and guidelines.
5. Foster young ophthalmologists and scientists.
6. Advocate public eye health and blindness prevention.

Article III – Membership

Membership Categories: Regular, Associate, Student, Institutional, and Honorary.

Regular members: ophthalmologists, scientists; Associate members: related professionals; Student members: trainees; Institutional members: hospitals, universities; Honorary members: contributors.

Rights and Duties

Right to vote, elect, and be elected

Obligation to abide by the Constitution and pay dues

Article IV – Governance

The Association’s governing bodies include:
1. General Assembly
2. Executive Council
3. Secretariat
4. Committees and Sections

The General Assembly is the highest authority; the Council manages daily affairs; the Secretariat handles administration.

Article V – Meetings and Publications

The Association shall hold international congresses and regional symposia to promote scientific exchange.

Official publications include the Journal of the International Association of Ophthalmology (J-IAO) and newsletters.

Article VI – Finance

Financial sources include membership dues, registration fees, sponsorships, donations, and publication income.

All funds shall be used solely for the Association’s academic and educational purposes.

Article VII – Amendments and Dissolution

Amendments require a two-thirds majority of the General Assembly.

In case of dissolution, remaining assets shall be transferred to a non-profit organization with similar objectives.

Adopted by the Founding General Assembly
Date : ____________
Location : ____________
President : _______________________
Secretary-General : _______________________