The International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) convened a Special Virtual Meeting of Council on 21 July 2026 to consider a series of motions relating to the future scientific structure, governance, and financial framework of the Union.
Following broad participation by the National Adhering Organizations (NAOs), Council approved all seven motions by substantial majorities, providing a clear mandate to begin the process of implementing the approved changes. The motions addressed the 2027 National Adhering Organization dues, the revised 2026–2027 budget, the future scientific and governance structure of the Union, transitional arrangements for implementation, and a comprehensive review of the NAO dues calculation methodology.
A key outcome of the meeting was Council’s approval of a revised scientific structure for IUPAC, to take effect on 1 January 2028. The approved Divisions are:
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- Physical and Computational Chemistry
- Inorganic Chemistry
- Organic Chemistry and Chemical Biology
- Polymer Chemistry
- Analytical Chemistry
- Chemistry and the Environment
- Chemistry and Human Health
- Digital Standards in Chemistry
- Chemistry Education and Outreach
Council also approved the future lineup of Standing Committees:
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- Finance Committee
- Committee on Publications
- Industry Liaison Group
- Committee on Ethics, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
- International Younger Chemists’ Network
- Project Committee
- Evaluation Committee
- Interdivisional Committee on Terminology, Nomenclature and Symbols
With Council’s decisions, IUPAC will now begin the process of implementing the approved roadmap. This includes establishing a Task Force to prepare proposed revisions to the Union’s Statutes, Bylaws, and Standing Orders; developing the governance framework needed to support the new structure; and carrying out the approved transitional arrangements leading to implementation in 2028. The proposed revisions to the governing documents will be presented to Council for consideration at its next ordinary meeting, to be held in Montréal in July 2027, in accordance with the Union’s governance procedures.
Council also requested a comprehensive review of the National Adhering Organization dues system, examining the current methodology to ensure it remains fair, transparent, equitable, predictable, and sustainable. The Treasurer will report the findings, together with any recommendations, to Council in advance of its next ordinary meeting.
The detailed voting results demonstrate broad support across the membership for the proposed direction of the Union and provide a strong foundation for the future growth of IUPAC and its scientific activity.
National Adhering Organizations are invited to express their interest in participating in these important activities. Expressions of interest are welcome from NAOs wishing to nominate representatives to contribute to the Task Force reviewing the Statutes and Bylaws, as well as to the consultation process supporting the review of the National Adhering Organization subscription model. Further information on the composition, terms of reference, and nomination process will be communicated in due course.
Further information on the Special Council, including the agenda and supporting documentation, is available on the IUPAC Special Council webpage.
IUPAC thanks its National Adhering Organizations and volunteers for their engagement throughout the consultation and decision-making process. Their contributions have been instrumental in shaping the Union’s future direction and ensuring that the implementation of these decisions is informed by the broad expertise and commitment of the global chemistry community.
Contact: Fabienne Meyers
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