News in 2024
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As FIG approaches its 150th anniversary in 2028, plans are underway to mark this significant milestone in style. Established in 1878 in Paris, France, by delegates from seven pioneering national associations, FIG has played a pivotal role in advancing global collaboration and innovation in surveying.
The upcoming celebration inspired FIG's French member organizations, Ordre des Géomètres-Experts (OGE) and the French Association of Topography (AFT), to suggest that they would host the event in the city of its inception. Following a proposal endorsed by the FIG Council and General Assembly in 2022, Paris was chosen as the destination for the 2028 FIG Working Week, bypassing the traditional bid process.
Representatives from OGE and ATF inspected potential venues on the site
visit together with FIG Director Louise Friis-Hansen
The early decision in 2022 has provided ample time for meticulous planning, enabling the crafting of an unforgettable experience for attendees. Under normal circumstances the election should have taken place in 2024.
To ensure the success of this landmark event, representatives from OGE and AFT, accompanied by FIG Director Louise Friis-Hansen, conducted a site visit to explore potential venues and design a captivating program. Several venues might be attractive taking potential dates and possibilities for special celebration activities into consideration. The choice of venue will have an impact on the final dates, hence they have not been settled yet, too.
Important for a venue is that there will be suitable and reasonable accommodation options nearby. Paris however, is well connected with the Métro de Paris which will most likely serve as the main way of transporation in Paris.
The local organizers have already begun
brainstorming ideas for a special celebration program that will
complement the FIG Working Week, promising a blend of professional
development and commemorative festivities. From insightful keynote
addresses to immersive cultural experiences, the 2028 FIG Working Week
in Paris is set to be a one-of-a-kind celebration.
The national event will be connected to the Working Week and will be held in parallel/together.
 The two main representatives Mr. Bernard Flacelière (left) AFT and President Joseph Pascual OGE with FIG Director Louise Friis-Hansen |
 The current OCE office is located close the the Arc de triomphe
de l'Étoile |
As preparations gain momentum, FIG and its local partners remain committed to honouring the organization's legacy while embracing innovation and collaboration. Stay tuned for further updates as FIG and the local organizers work tirelessly to bring this historic celebration to life in the heart of Paris!
After the publication of this news item we got the sad news from OGE about the much too early passing of Joseph Pascual on 28 February 2024. OCE write:
We are deeply saddened to convey the sudden passing, on 28 February 2024 at the age of 66, of our dear friend and colleague Joseph Pascual, President of the French Ordre des géomètres-experts (OGE). A native of Agen and a surveyor recognised by all his colleagues, Joseph Pascual devoted his entire career to promoting the profession. He was President of the Bordeaux Regional Council of OGE between 2012 and 2021, and First Vice-President of the Higher Council of OGE between 2019 and his election as President of the institution in 2021. In June 2023, he was unanimously re-elected for a further two-year term.
It was with deep sadness we got this news, and FIG President together with all in FIG send our sincere condolences to his family.
Louise Friis-Hansen
February 2024
