ICONN hosted the inaugural global convening, a two-day interactive gathering that brought together world-renowned experts for an in-depth exploration of science, policy, and neuroethics. This event has served as the foundation for shaping a scientific consensus paper.

Day 1 – The morning began with a deep dive into the current scientific understanding of psychotic disorders, led by world-renowned psychopharmacologist Dr. Stephen M. Stahl.  That afternoon featured international policy discussions led by Dr. Katherine Warburton.

Day 2- Father Alberto Carrara, Dean of Neuroethics at the Pontifical Athenaeum Regina Apostolorum, began the day with a discussion of the neuroethical framework needed to make decisions about treating (or not) individuals who are living with schizophrenia. The afternoon was dedicated to a hands-on session, with all attendees focused on achieving consensus for best practices when working with this population of human beings.

Reforms in Italy have demonstrated that when systems are held accountable, individuals living with psychotic illnesses can lead fulfilling lives within their communities. The country has nearly eradicated both the institutionalization and criminalization of schizophrenia by ensuring accountability in community funding and removing the harmful standards for treating those who lack medical decision-making capacity.

(Follow this link for information on our partnership event with the Università di Bari, October 2-3, 2025)