Join us for a high-level policy event co-hosted by MEP Romana Jerković (S&D, Croatia) and MEP Tomislav Sokol (EPP, Croatia): “Headway – A New Roadmap in Brain Health: Focus Epilepsy”. The event will take place on Wednesday, 2 July 2025, from 14:30 to 16:30 CEST at the European Parliament, Room SPAAK 4B1, in Brussels.

As Europe grapples with ongoing geopolitical instability and the lasting impact of recent health crises, building long-term resilience requires more than just economic reform. It demands a renewed focus on brain health. Prioritising neurological well-being is not only key to improving individual quality of life but also essential for preserving Europe’s social cohesion, economic innovation, and global competitiveness.

This event will bring together policymakers, clinicians, researchers, patient advocates and industry leaders to address epilepsy, one of the most common yet under-recognised neurological conditions in Europe. Despite affecting millions, up to 40% of epilepsy patients still lack access to adequate treatment. The discussion will emphasise the urgent need for inclusive, data-driven policy and integrated care pathways, while situating epilepsy within the broader brain health agenda.

During the event, the latest edition of the Headway report will be presented, developed by Angelini Pharma in partnership with TEHA Group. Since its inception in 2017, the Headway initiative has championed a cross-sectoral approach to brain health, addressing systemic challenges across healthcare, education, and the workplace.

The agenda will spotlight expert perspectives on the implementation of the WHO Intersectoral Global Action Plan on Epilepsy and Other Neurological Disorders across Europe. It will bring together a diverse range of voices, including international patient organizations, leading clinicians, and senior EU policymakers. Notable contributions will come from figures such as MEP Vytenis Andriukaitis (S&D, Lithuania), MEP András Tivadar Kulja (EPP, Hungary), and MEP Aurelijus Veryga (ECR, Lithuania), who will share their insights on how to translate global frameworks into concrete action within European health systems.

The European Brain Council (EBC) looks forward to being part of the event. Frédéric Destrebecq, EBC Executive Director will take part in a roundtable discussion “Making Brain Health (and Epilepsy) a Public Priority in the EU” where he will share his insights on how brain health can remain at the top of the EU policy agenda.

The session will conclude with remarks from Agnese Cattaneo, Chief Medical Officer of Angelini Pharma, and will be moderated by Jennifer Baker, renowned EU affairs presenter and journalist.