Understanding Bilderberg Meetings: The World’s Most Exclusive Annual Conference

Each year, Bilderberg Meetings bring together approximately 130 of the most influential leaders from politics, business, finance, technology, academia, and media for four days of intensive, off-the-record discussions. Since 1954, these annual conferences have provided a unique forum for informal dialogue on the most pressing issues facing the Western world.

Unlike other international gatherings such as the World Economic Forum or G7 summits, Bilderberg Conferences operate under strict privacy rules. The Bilderberg Club follows the Chatham House Rule, allowing participants to speak freely without concern that their comments will be publicly attributed. No formal agenda is distributed, no votes are taken, and no official policy statements are issued.

The Steering Committee selects both the topics for discussion and the participants to invite. Meetings rotate between European countries and North America, with the conference typically held in late May or early June. Host countries provide security, while participants cover their own travel and accommodation expenses.

Our archive below documents every Bilderberg Meeting from the first conference in 1954 to the most recent gathering. Browse by year to explore locations, dates, and—for recent meetings—participant lists and agenda topics.