Accepted Special Sessions

• SS-01: Human Symbiotic Systems
  Organizers: Tsuyoshi Nakamura (Chubu University, Japan), Tomohiro Yoshikawa (Suzuka University of Medical Science, Japan), Masayoshi Kanoh (Chukyo University, Japan)

  Abstract: This special session aims at discussing the basic principles and methods of designing intelligent interaction with the bidirectional communication based on the effective collaboration and symbiosis between the human and the artifact, i.e. robots, agents, computer and so on relating to fuzzy theory. We aims at encouraging the academic and industrial discussion about the research on Human-Agent Interaction (HAI), Human-Robot Interaction (HRI), and Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) concerning Symbiotic Systems. Reflecting the fact that this society covers a wide range of topics, in this session we invite not only fuzzy researchers but also the related researchers from a variety of fields including intelligent robotics, human-machine interface, Kansei engineering and so on.

• SS-02: Evolutionary Computation, Swarm Intelligence, and Their Applications
  Organizers: Tomohiro Yoshikawa (Suzuka University of Medical Science, Japan), Kei Ohnishi (Kyushu Institute of Technology, Japan)

  Abstract: Evolutionary computation (EC) and swarm intelligence (SI) have attracted much attention as practical methods for solving complicated problems in the real world. This organized session widely calls for papers related to EC, SI, or their applications. This session is organized by the Special Interest Group on ECOmp in Japan Society for Fuzzy Theory and Intelligent Informatics.

• SS-03: Rough Sets, Granular Computing and Their Applications
  Organizers: Yasuo Kudo (Muroran Institute of Technology, Japan), Hiroshi Sakai (Shimonoseki City University, Japan), Yoshifumi Kusunoki (Osaka Metropolitan University, Japan)

  Abstract: Recently, rough sets and granular computing have been recognized as the new paradigm of computing and attracted the attention of researchers coping with data mining, knowledge discovery, pattern recognition, decision analysis, soft computing, Kansei engineering, etc. In this session, we focus on the recent progress of rough sets and granular computing and exchange the new results and the ideas for future developments in this research area. Not only papers on rough sets, granular computing, and their applications but also papers in the related area are welcomed.

• SS-04: Intelligent System and Electrical Power System
  Organizers: Young-Jae Ryoo (Mokpo National University, South Korea)

  Abstract: Modern electrical power systems are undergoing a rapid transformation driven by the large-scale integration of renewable energy sources, proliferation of distributed energy resources (DERs), electrification of transportation, and the evolution toward smart grids. These changes significantly increase system complexity, uncertainty, and operational challenges. This Special Session aims to provide a platform for researchers and practitioners to present and discuss recent advances in the integration of intelligent systems into electrical power systems, covering both theoretical developments and practical applications.

• SS-05: Continual Learning and Emergence of Intelligent Systems
  Organizers: Yuichiro Toda (Okayama University, Japan), Naoki Masuyama (Osaka Metropolitan University, Japan), Seiki Ubukata (Osaka Metropolitan University, Japan), Chin Wei Hong (Tokyo Metropolitan University, Japan), Takeru Aoki(The University of Tokyo, Japan)

  Abstract: The purpose of this special session is to discuss the continual learning and the emergence of intelligent systems for extracting, storing, and exploiting the multidimensional information from the environmental data with multiple modalities. This session welcomes fundamental research on information extraction techniques and knowledge base relation learning approaches. In addition, this session also welcomes research on the applied topic of exploiting knowledge with intelligent applications/robots.

• SS-06: Human-Centered Explainable Soft Computing
  Organizers: Lynn Pickering (Osaka Metropolitan University, Japan), Javier Andreu-Perez (University of Essex, United Kingdom), Yusuke Nojima (Osaka Metropolitan University, Japan)

  Abstract: The integration of machine learning into high-stakes decision-making in domains such as healthcare and autonomous systems has led to research to understand these decisions. While Explainable AI (XAI) has emerged as a dominant research area, the "explanation" is often treated as a technical byproduct rather than a human-oriented solution.This special session focuses on the intersection of soft computing and human-centric design. Soft computing techniques are uniquely positioned to bridge the gap between complex mathematical models and human linguistic reasoning. However, the true value of an explanation lies in its interpretability, relevance, and utility to the end-user.We invite contributions that explicitly place the human (domain expert, model designer or other end-user) at the center of the research. We also encourage submissions that are not fully there yet, but express an interest in this direction.

• SS-07: Artificial Intelligence for Medical/Healthcare Systems
  Organizers: Kento Morita (Mie University, Japan), Hiroharu Kawanaka (Mie University, Japan), Ohyun Jo (Chungbuk National University, South Korea), Bumshik Lee (Korea Institute of Energy Technology, South Korea)

  Abstract: Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) play the fundamental role to develop new medical and healthcare applications (e.g. medical image analysis, clinical data mining, human monitoring, robotic surgery, and drug discovery). To reform the current medicine and healthcare considerably, further advances of the medical and healthcare system are needed. This special session aims to gather theories and applications to build new medical/healthcare systems with AI.

• SS-08: Advanced Image Processing and AI for Human-Centered Computing
  Organizers: Yoichi Kageyama (Akita University, Japan), Hikaru Shirai (Akita University, Japan)

  Abstract: This special session focuses on the pivotal role of image processing and artificial intelligence (AI) in realizing human-centered computing for an increasingly intelligent society. With the rapid convergence of AI and IoT, the landscape of visual computing is evolving to become more intuitive and ubiquitous. We welcome high-quality contributions covering theoretical foundations and practical applications aimed at augmenting human capabilities and well-being in Society 5.0. Topics of interest include, but are not limited to, image recognition systems for environmental perception, human-machine interaction, and context-aware sensing.

• SS-09: Soft Science
  Organizers: Masahiro Inuiguchi (The University of Osaka, Japan), Shigeaki Innan (The University of Osaka, Japan)

  Abstract: In real-life problems, such as environmental issues, urban planning, and management challenges, the engineering approach alone does not always work effectively. To such problems, the combination and fusion of approaches developed in multiple fields will be effective. This session serves as a forum for presenting results of research and exchanging opinions on the application of fuzzy theory and soft computing to the humanities, social sciences, and mathematical sciences. We expect presentations from a wide range of fields, including psychology, sociology, economics, business administration, mathematics, operations research, information science, affective engineering, and artificial engineering.

• SS-10: Emerging Trends in Clustering Methodologies and Their Applications
  Organizers: Yukihiro Hamasuna (Kindai University, Japan), Seiki Ubukata (Osaka Metropolitan University, Japan)

  Abstract: Clustering remains one of the most powerful and essential tools across diverse fields, including data mining, machine learning, and pattern recognition. In the era of big data, extracting latent, actionable knowledge from vast datasets has become a primary challenge for researchers. To address this, a variety of advanced clustering algorithms have emerged, integrating novel methodologies such as noise-robust modeling, the EM algorithm, rough set theory, co-clustering, and rigorous cluster validity indices. These developments have significantly expanded the scope of applications to include text mining, community detection, and recommendation systems. This special session aims to showcase leading-edge research on clustering and its integration with other computational methodologies, providing a forum for discussing future directions and interdisciplinary innovations.

• SS-11: Cognitive and Intelligent Robot Locomotion
  Organizers: Azhar Aulia Saputra (Kobe University, Japan), Abderraouf Maoudj (King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals, Saudi Arabia), Fernando Ardilla (Politeknik Elektronika Negeri Surabaya, Indonesia), Adnan Rachmat Anom Besari (Politeknik Elektronika Negeri Surabaya, Indonesia)

  Abstract: Recent advances in robot locomotion have led to strong performance in structured and semi-structured environments. However, robust, adaptive, and generalizable locomotion in real-world settings remains an open challenge. Classical control methods offer stability and reliability, but they often have limited flexibility in complex and changing environments. In contrast, purely data-driven approaches can achieve strong performance, yet they often remain difficult to interpret and may not generalize well across tasks, terrains, or platforms.This special session focuses on cognitive and intelligent approaches to robot locomotion that integrate perception, decision-making, learning, and control within coherent system architectures. The goal is to highlight methods that enable robots to adapt to dynamic terrains, recover from disturbances, generalize across environments and tasks, and operate safely under uncertainty.Topics of interest include, but are not limited to, hierarchical locomotion architectures, perception-action integration, adaptive gait generation, hybrid learning and model-based control, explainable locomotion intelligence, online adaptation, multi-terrain mobility, and sim-to-real transfer. Contributions addressing both theoretical developments and experimental validation on real robotic systems are particularly encouraged.The session aims to bring together researchers in robotics, intelligent systems, control, and machine learning to discuss emerging approaches to locomotion that combine performance, adaptability, and interpretability, moving beyond purely black-box policies toward more structured and cognitively grounded locomotion intelligence.

• SS-12: Narration and Interpretation in the Age of Generative AI
  Organizers: Jumpei Ono (Aomori University, Japan), Yukiko Furuya (Chiba University, Japan), Hiroki Fxyma (Kobe University, Japan), Riku Takahashi (Future University Hakodate, Japan), Takashi Ogata (Yamato University, Japan)

  Abstract: This special session aims at exploring the mechanisms of human “narration” and “interpretation” from multiple perspectives, and at rethinking what these acts mean in an age reshaped by generative AI. We welcome themes that do not fit easily into conventional frameworks, including new initiatives and unexplored research areas. If you have work that would be difficult to place in other sessions, please consider submitting it here.Advances in communication technology have expanded individual creative activities and the circulation of expression to an unprecedented degree. In recent years, the emergence of generative AI has brought about a qualitative shift in the very means by which we “express what lies within us.” This environmental change extends beyond questions of technique and technology: it draws renewed attention to the nature of the individual, and to the questions of what one chooses to express and what one seeks to convey. At the same time, the ongoing debate over whether the “language understanding” of large language models carries genuine meaning has prompted a need to reexamine the processes of meaning comprehension and interpretation in humans themselves. In this session, we regard “narration” as the act of expressing something, and “interpretation” as the act of understanding what has been expressed.On this basis, we discuss the role of “stories” as a foundation that supports memory, imagination, self-understanding, and the formation of emotions. Across fields such as cognitive science, Kansei studies, narratology, and artificial intelligence, we examine the mechanisms of narration and interpretation involved in the formation of human intelligence, sensibility, and social understanding. Building on the traditions of AI, cognitive science, and literary theory, we aim to construct a new research framework that bridges humanistic and scientific knowledge.We welcome contributions on topics including, but not limited to: computational and cognitive models of narrative generation and comprehension; interpretation, inference, and meaning-making in human–AI interaction; the role of stories in memory, imagination, and self-understanding; narrative and emotion in Kansei studies; the capacities and limits of generative AI in “telling” and “understanding” stories; and the ethical, philosophical, and literary dimensions of machine-generated narratives. We hope this session will serve as a venue where researchers from the humanities, cognitive science, and AI can meet on shared ground, and where the act of telling and reading stories can be examined anew in light of the generative AI era.

• SS-13: Challenges and Frontiers in Integrating Evolutionary Computation and Deep Learning
  Organizers: Yuefeng Xu (Niigata University, Japan), Akira Takahashi (Niigata University, Japan), Jun Yu (Niigata University, Japan)

  Abstract: Evolutionary Computation (EC) and Deep Learning (DL) are two important areas in artificial intelligence. EC provides powerful global optimization and adaptive search capabilities, while DL has shown strong performance in representation learning and data-driven modeling. Their integration has led to promising research directions such as neural architecture search, hyperparameter optimization, model compression, neuroevolution, evolutionary reinforcement learning, and automated machine learning.This special session aims to discuss recent advances, challenges, and future frontiers in integrating EC and DL. Topics of interest include, but are not limited to, efficient EC-DL hybrid algorithms, large-scale optimization for deep models, robustness and interpretability, surrogate-assisted methods, multi-objective optimization, distributed implementations, and applications in vision, speech, robotics, healthcare, and engineering. The session seeks to promote interdisciplinary exchange and inspire new ideas for building efficient, scalable, and trustworthy intelligent systems.

• SS-14: Advanced Human Support Systems for Healthcare Applications
  Organizers: Takenori Obo (Tokyo Metropolitan University, Japan), Takahiro Takeda (Daiichi Institute of Technology, Japan), Akihiro Yorita (Daiichi Institute of Technology, Japan)

  Abstract: In recent years, advanced human support systems have been increasingly developed through the integration of robotics, artificial intelligence, sensing, and information technologies, particularly in the fields of healthcare, welfare, and rehabilitation. These systems play essential roles in prevention, monitoring, assistance, and training support.This special session aims to provide a focused forum for discussing recent advances in theories, methodologies, and emerging applications related to advanced human support systems for healthcare applications. We strongly encourage authors to submit original contributions covering conceptual, algorithmic, methodological, and application-oriented research.The topics of interest include, but are not limited to, human support systems for healthcare and rehabilitation; assistive technologies and assistive robotics; multimodal sensing and wearable sensing systems; biomedical signal processing and data analytics; human behavior understanding and modeling for support systems; AI-driven healthcare systems and intelligent decision support; and human–machine interaction in healthcare applications.This session welcomes interdisciplinary research that integrates sensing, intelligence, and system design to support human health and well-being. In particular, we emphasize human-centered approaches that aim to understand, model, and support human behavior, leading to the development of next-generation healthcare support systems.

• SS-15: KANSEI Systems: With and for Humans
  Organizers: Shino Iwashita (Tokyo University of Technology, Japan), Muneyuki Unehara (Hokkaido Musashi Women's University, Japan)

  Abstract: Recent rapid changes in society, driven by the COVID-19 pandemic and the advancement of AI technologies, have increased the need for systems that support individuals while considering their emotions and situations. In this context, kansei information processing plays an important role in supporting people from both physical and psychological perspectives, contributing to improved quality of life (QOL) and value creation.This Special Session, titled “KANSEI Systems: With and for Humans,” invites contributions on human-centered kansei systems and their applications. We welcome research on kansei-based support systems, interactive and communication systems, and human–machine interfaces designed to enhance everyday life, including studies integrating kansei with AI and related technologies.Both theoretical and applied contributions are welcome.

• SS-16: Adaptive and Human-Harmonious Information Processing
  Organizers: Suguru N. Kudoh (Kwanseigakuin University, Japan), Masayuki Kikuchi (Tokyo University of Technology, Japan), Isao Hayashi (Kansai University, Japan), Tetsuya Miyoshi (Hannan University, Japan), Keiichi Horio (Kyushu Institute of Technology, Japan), Yukio Horiguchi (Kansai University, Japan)

  Abstract: The rapid evolution of generative artificial intelligence (AI) has fundamentally transitioned the landscape of informatics toward "Physical AI," emphasizing sophisticated, real-world interactions. At this technological nexus, the convergence of information engineering with bio-behavioral and biological sciences has become a critical imperative. This interdisciplinary fusion facilitates the development of novel engineering methodologies that emulate biological systems while concurrently leveraging informatics to explore the complex frontiers of life sciences.A central pillar of this session is the application of soft computing—specifically fuzzy inference and related techniques—which demonstrate high affinity for multidimensional domains such as human ethology, social intelligence, and physiological systems. These methodologies are uniquely equipped to manage the inherent uncertainty and complexity of human-centric data, enabling a more resilient integration of technology into the human experience.This special session invites rigorous discourse on computational intelligence and its expansive applications in human behavior. We welcome contributions across a broad spectrum, including:　Behavioral pattern analysis via soft computing;　Neuro-fuzzy systems and brain-inspired processing;　Brain-machine interfaces (BMI) and intelligent robotics;　Biological signal processing and physiological data science;　Cognitive science and sports engineering.By synthesizing these diverse research trajectories, this session aims to elucidate the principles of “resilient” information processing aligned with human biological and social imperatives, ultimately advancing both informatics and the fundamental understanding of living systems.

• SS-17: Social Systems
  Organizers: Tadahiko Murata (The University of Osaka, Japan), Hiroaki Inokuchi (Kansai University, Japan)

  Abstract: This special session aims to promote latest research outcome regarding social systems.
  Please submit papers regarding any systems to support interaction, communication, and understanding of humans among individuals, communities and societies.
  We welcome research relevant to the following research topics but not limited to:
  
  Agent-based simulation
  Awareness Computing
  Big Data Computing
  Cognitive Computing
  Companion Technology
  Computational Intelligence
  Computational Life Science
  Computational Psychology
  Computer Supported Cooperative Work in Design
  Cyber-enabled World
  Cybernetics for Cyber-Physical Systems
  Cyber Humanities
  Granular Computing Systems
  Evolutionary Computation
  Flexible Electronic Systems
  Fuzzy systems
  Generative AI
  Human Centered Transportation Systems
  Human-Machine Interaction for Connected and Automated Vehicles
  Human-Machine Systems
  Humanized Crowd Computing
  Intelligent Systems to Human-Aware Sustainability
  Knowledge Acquisition in Intelligent Systems
  Social and Economic Security
  Social Computing and Social Intelligence
  Visual Analytics and Communications

• SS-18: Computational Intelligence for Sustainability
  Organizers: Shinji Fukuda (Hokkaido University, Japan), Yuto Kamiwaki (SCI Research Institute Co., Ltd., Japan), Naohisa Nakashima (Obihiro University of Agriculture & Veterinary Medicine, Japan)

  Abstract: Recent advances in computational intelligence have enabled new approaches for understanding, predicting, and managing complex environmental and socio-ecological systems. This special session aims to provide an interdisciplinary platform for researchers and practitioners working at the intersection of computational intelligence, environmental systems, sensing technologies, and sustainability science. The session encourages discussions on intelligent and adaptive approaches that integrate data-driven and process-based modeling to address sustainability challenges and support resilient societies.
  Topics of interest include, but are not limited to, artificial intelligence, explainable AI, data-driven and process-based modeling, sensor fusion, digital twins, multimodal sensing, intelligent monitoring, and predictive technologies for environmental and sustainability applications. Contributions addressing climate change adaptation, nature-based solutions, agriculture, water resources, soil and meteorological systems, ecosystems, landscape and soundscape analysis, and other sustainability-related topics are particularly welcome.

• SS-19: AI Security
  Organizers: Geon-Yun Shin (Hankyong National University, South Korea), Myung-Mook Han (Gachon University, South Korea), Seok-Hwan Choi (Yonsei University, South Korea), Takeshi Takahashi (NICT, Japan), Chan su Han (NICT, Japan), Shin Cheol Lee(NICT, Japan), Tomohiro Morikawa (University of Hyogo, Japan)

  Abstract: With the rapid evolution of artificial intelligence, AI security is no longer an option but a necessity for building trustworthy systems.
  This session provides an in-depth exploration of the security challenges facing modern AI environments.
  Key topics covered in this session include:
  
  - LLM Security and AI Agent Security
  - Multimodal AI and Generative AI Security
  - Adversarial Machine Learning, Prompt Injection, and Jailbreak Attacks
  - Federated Learning Security and Privacy-preserving AI
  - AI-driven Cybersecurity and Emerging Cyber Threats

• SS-20: Embodied AI and Autonomous Robotic Systems: Human-Centric Deployment, Localization, and Educational Platforms
  Organizers: Michael Danner (Bochum University of Applied Sciences, Germany), Akihiro Yorita (Daiichi Institute of Technology, Japan), Matthias Rätsch (Reutlingen University, Germany)

  Abstract: Embodied AI and autonomous robotic systems are increasingly expected to operate in real-world environments where technical performance, human acceptance, social implementation, and educational accessibility must be considered together. While recent advances in AI, sensing, control, and robot embodiment have expanded the possibilities of autonomous systems, their successful deployment depends on more than algorithmic capability alone. It requires a human-centric perspective that addresses how people perceive and accept robots, how autonomous systems localize and act in constrained physical environments, how robotic platforms can be selected and maintained for research and teaching, and how accessible educational systems can support the next generation of engineers and researchers.
  This special session covers topics such as service robots, mobile robots, humanoid platforms, localization methods, educational robotics, and STEAM-based learning environments. Particular attention is given to the relationship between autonomous behavior and the contexts in which robots are introduced, including public spaces, laboratories, classrooms, and hands-on learning settings. By considering both human–robot interaction and system-level implementation, the session aims to clarify the requirements for robotic technologies that are technically feasible, socially acceptable, and educationally meaningful.
  A key theme of the session is the deployment of robots in human-centered environments. This includes understanding user acceptance of autonomous and humanoid robots, evaluating factors that influence trust and usability, and identifying design considerations that support smoother integration into service and educational contexts. Another theme is localization and navigation in structured or constrained environments, where simplified yet robust estimation approaches can contribute to practical autonomous mobility while reducing cost and implementation complexity.
  The session also addresses the evolving role of humanoid robots and small-scale robotic platforms in teaching and research. As robotic systems become more diverse and accessible, educators and researchers must consider platform availability, programmability, sensing capability, maintainability, and suitability for different learning objectives. Low-cost physical platforms, including miniature autonomous vehicles, can provide effective environments for integrating mechanics, electronics, AI, control, and data analysis, thereby connecting abstract concepts with embodied experimentation.
  By bringing together these perspectives, this special session aims to provide a forum for discussing how embodied AI and autonomous robotic systems can be developed, deployed, localized, and taught in ways that respond to both technological challenges and societal needs. The session encourages contributions that bridge theory and practice, engineering and education, and autonomy and human-centered design.

• SS-21: Intelligent Maritime Systems and Technology
  Organizers: Keon Myung Lee (Chungbuk National University, South Korea)

  Abstract: The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence, data analytics, and digital technologies is transforming the maritime domain.
  Intelligent maritime systems are increasingly essential for improving safety, efficiency, and sustainability in areas such as vessel traffic management, autonomous navigation, and smart port operations.
  
  This organized session aims to provide a forum for researchers and practitioners to share recent advances and innovative applications in intelligent maritime systems and technologies.
  We encourage interdisciplinary contributions that address both theoretical developments and real-world implementations.
  
  Topics of interest include, but are not limited to:
  - AI and machine learning in maritime systems
  - Vessel trajectory analysis and prediction
  - Intelligent Vessel Traffic Services (VTS)
  - Maritime data analytics and big data
  - Autonomous ships and smart navigation
  - Maritime safety, risk assessment, and anomaly detection
  - Smart ports and digital maritime logistics
  - IoT and sensor integration in maritime environments
  
  All submissions will be peer-reviewed in accordance with the conference guidelines.
  Accepted papers will be presented in the organized session and included in the conference proceedings.

• SS-22: Explainable User Modeling and Applications
  Organizers: Kazushi Okamoto (The University of Electro-Communications, Japan), Shinichi Yoshida (Kochi University of Technology, Japan), Koki Karube (The University of Electro-Communications, Japan), Atsushi Shibata (The University of Electro-Communications, Japan)

  Abstract: This session widely discusses about user (human) modeling with explainability and its applications, we aim to emergence of advanced data-driven decision support.
  Keywords: explainable artificial intelligence; recommender system; user (human) modeling; machine learning

• SS-23: Convergence Technology of Signal Processing and Biohealth
  Organizers: Suk-seung Hwang (Chosun University, South Korea)

  Abstract: The biohealth field is closely related to electronic technologies such as various sensors and advanced signal processing techniques. This special session focuses on biohealth technologies grounded in electronic and electrical engineering, including sensor design, signal and data processing algorithms, device development, and location-detection methods. Contributions addressing wearable and implantable systems, IoT-enabled monitoring, and hardware–software co-design for reliable physiological measurement are welcome. We also invite work on novel circuits, low-power implementations, and real-time processing techniques that improve accuracy and usability in clinical and everyday settings. In addition, diverse electronic technologies that support biohealth applications are encouraged in this session.

Call for Special Session Proposals

Special Sessions provide an opportunity to focus on emerging research topics, innovative ideas, and interdisciplinary themes related to soft computing and intelligent systems.Researchers are encouraged to organize Special Sessions that stimulate discussion and promote collaboration within the community.Proposed topics should be aligned with the scope of SCIS&ISIS2026.

Proposal Submission

Researchers interested in organizing a Special Session are invited to submit a proposal via the following Google Form:

Special Session Proposal Form
https://forms.gle/esFc6So9FRd4y1Vy8

The proposal should include the following information:

1. Proposer's Full Name
2. Organization/Affiliation
3. Email Address
4. Proposed Special Session Title
5. Proposed Special Session Abstract/Description (max 500 words)
6. Additional Comments or Information (e.g., confirmed co-organizers)

Each Special Session should typically consist of 4–6 papers.

Once approved, the duty of the Organizers is to publicize the Special Session among researchers and practitioners in the field and attract a sufficient number of papers.

Papers submitted to Special Sessions will undergo the same review process as regular papers. The Organizers of the respective special session are responsible for organizing the review process, assuring at least three reviews per paper. This includes the selection of reviewers from their peers.

Before starting the review process, Special Sessions Organizers must explicitly declare papers that present a conflict of interest for them. A conflict of interest arises where the judgment of a paper quality can be influenced by the Organizers being authors or knowing some of the authors. To ensure independent reviews, this conflict must be marked as such in the submission system and the SS chairs notified so that they can arrange the review process.

A minimum of four accepted papers (full and/or short papers) with authors from multiple research groups is required for each special session. Please note when proposed special sessions cannot collect the minimum number of accepted papers, the accepted papers will be allocated to other sessions wherever possible.

In the case of weakly organized special sessions, the conference Organizers will support the session Organizers with advice but reserve measures including cancellation of the respective special session.

We highly appreciate if special sessions are composed of presenters from various countries.

Important Date

Special Session Proposal Deadline: April 22, 2026  May 6, 2026  May 20, 2026 (Extended)
Notification of Acceptance: May 6, 2026
Paper Submission Deadline: July 3, 2026
Conference Dates: November 2–5, 2026