Global Protocol & Diplomacy: A Capital Welcome to All

Join us in Washington D.C. for the 22nd Annual International Protocol Education Forum for a week of educational programs, networking, and furthering the work of your organization.

Agenda

The Forum Planning Committee is finalizing the program. We are excited to share segments of confirmed programming for our upcoming PDI-POA Forum. 

2023 Education Forum Schedule

The Annual International Protocol Education Forum is an investment in your professional development and future in the world of protocol diplomacy. Click here to download a document that can help you to build your business case for your employer to support your continuing education in this field. 

Registration Information

Registration is open through 22 June 2023. Space is limited - we recommend registering early to secure your spot. 

Full registration includes: opening reception, all plenary and breakout sessions, and all networking lunches and breaks, as well as transportation to and from off-site session locations.

Closing reception is a separately ticketed event for all attendees (Forum registrants & guests).

Guest packages: availability of offering guest packages will be assessed in April to ensure that PDI-POA members and non-members interested in full registration have priority due to limited capacity.

Forum Hotel

The official Forum hotel, the Omni Shoreham Hotel, overlooks the Rock Creek Park, is a short walk from the Metro, and close to Washington, D.C. landmarks. Registrants will have access to a special hotel rate at the Omni Shoreham Hotel until all rooms in the block are reserved or through 23 June 2023.

Click here to access the special hotel rate.

Host City

We are delighted to host the 2023 International Protocol Educational Forum in Washington, D.C., USA. Learn more about the city and the many things to do while you visit!

Annual Sponsorship Program

The Forum is a unique opportunity for sponsors to have direct contact with decision makers and influencers in more than 100 organizations, companies, governments, etc. represented. Interested partners can learn more about the sponsorship opportunities here.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I become a member of PDI-POA?

Interested individuals can become a member by completing the membership application form. After a brief review of the application and ensuring that membership fees have been paid in full, the individual will receive a welcome letter. Membership in PDI-POA has great member benefits including a $770 savings for Forum registration. Learn more about joining here.

Is attendance at the closing reception required?

The closing reception is an extra opportunity to continue networking and cultivating the relationships that had been built over the time of the Forum. This is not a required event as it is an additional cost.

I am an international attendee. Can PDI-POA help with my visa application?

Prospective attendees occasionally need a letter of invitation to include with their request to their government or organization. These requests can be submitted to [email protected]. Requests must be received by 14 June. Please allow 5 days for response to your request.

Requests should  include the name(s) of attendee(s), their role, organization, location. 

Visa application processes and timelines are at the discretion of the respective United States of America consulates and embassies. We encourage international attendees to begin the visa application process as early as possible.

Providing a visa invitation letter does not obligate PDI-POA financially. All expenses related to attending the International Protocol Education Forum are the responsibility of the individual attendee.

Please note that your request for an invitation letter does not guarantee issuance of a visa. PDI-POA is not authorized to assist with the visa process beyond providing a letter of invitation. 

If a visa is denied, PDI-POA will refund the paid registration according to our Forum Cancellation Policy.

What forms of payment does PDI-POA accept?

PDI-POA accepts most major credit cards, check, and wire transfers. If you are in need of issuing a wire transfer, please contact [email protected]. Those paying by check or wire transfer must submit payment in time to be received and deposited by PDI-POA on or before 28 June in order for their registration to be confirmed.

I'm no longer able to attend the Forum. What is the cancellation policy?

The PDI-POA Forum cancellation policy can be found here.

Are there daily rates available?

Due to space limitations and operational management of the Forum, PDI-POA is unable to offer daily rates for the 2023 Forum.

When will Guest package information be available?

Due to space limitations and scheduling, the registration priority is given to full registrants. In late April, the Forum planning committee will re-assess the opportunity to include guest packages to the 2023 Forum.

Health & Safety Policy

PDI-POA values the health, safety, and well-being of all its members, Forum attendees, volunteers, staff, and guests. The association is committed to remaining in compliance with all current health and safety guidelines in accordance with the CDC as well as any local mandates. 

Attendees will be expected to respect the personal decisions of fellow participants with regard to wearing or choosing not to wear a mask during public events.

It is expected that any attendee who experiences symptoms of illness during the Forum will exercise appropriate judgment and caution to avoid spreading illness to others. If assistance is needed onsite, attendees should contact [email protected].