The World Council of Optometry (WCO) has announced that World Optometry Week 2026, running March 22-28, will highlight coordinated, cross-sector collaboration as a strategy for expanding access to eye and vision care worldwide under the theme ‘A Shared Vision: Collaboration in Global Eye Care.’

World Optometry Day, observed annually on March 23, recognizes optometry’s role in global health and efforts to expand access to eye care as a fundamental human right. The 2026 theme reflects challenges identified in the World Report on Vision, including population growth, aging demographics, and increasing urbanization, which continue to place pressure on health care systems and drive rising demand for sustainable eyecare services.

“Collaboration is fundamental to the future of eye care,” said Cindy Tromans, president of WCO. “Optometrists are important primary vision and eye health providers, and our greatest impact comes when we work with others across the health system.”

According to WCO, the theme aligns with global health priorities, including the World Health Organization’s call for integrated, people-centered eye care and stronger cross-sector collaboration to improve access, quality, and sustainability of services. The WCO is encouraging optometrists worldwide to use its multilingual World Optometry Week social media resources to support advocacy and awareness efforts, with additional materials expected to be released ahead of the 2026 observance.