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DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260318T160000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260318T180000
DTSTAMP:20260430T024051
CREATED:20260227T130728Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260316T111353Z
UID:60054-1773849600-1773856800@www.braincouncil.eu
SUMMARY:A European Vision for the Brain: Coordinating Research\, Care & Innovation (Part of Brain Health Day 2026)
DESCRIPTION:As part of Brain Awareness Week 2026\, the European Brain Council (EBC) joins forces under the Brain Health Mission with key strategic partners the European Academy of Neurology (EAN) and the Federation of European Neuroscience Societies (FENS). Supported by MEP Angelika Winzig (EPP\, AT)\, a full day of events will take place in Brussels under the umbrella Brain Health Day: Prevention\, Policy\, Progress on 18 March 2026. The event in question\, A European Vision for Brain Health: Coordinating Research\, Care & Innovation\, hosted by MEP Angelika Winzig (EPP\, Austria)\, will take place in the Presidential Salon of the European Parliament from 16:00 – 18:00. \nBrain Awareness Week is the global campaign to increase public awareness of the progress and benefits of brain research. Every March\, the week unites the efforts of partner organizations world-wide in a celebration of the brain for people of all ages. EBC takes part annually with an initiative to promote and communicate on brain health and research\, showcasing ongoing efforts to prevent and treat brain disorders – neurological and mental alike – in Europe. The goal of these activities is to gain more attention for brain health\, not only from within the wider brain community but also from EU policymakers and the public\, to ensure that more resources are channelled towards prevention awareness\, research on the brain and for the millions of Europeans currently living with or affected by a brain condition. \nAs the European Union finalises its 10th Framework Programme for Research and Innovation\, which will define the trajectory of Europe’s scientific and technological leadership for the years to come\, there is a unique window of opportunity to ensure that the brain is firmly anchored in the EU’s policy agendas. This event will help shape a powerful political momentum at a decisive time for concerted EU action. Building on the growing movement across Europe and globally to develop national brain strategies\, this year’s event will serve as a platform to highlight how coordinated approaches – across research\, care systems\, innovation ecosystems and prevention frameworks – can accelerate progress and reduce fragmentation. The event will also leverage the activities led by the European Academy of Neurology\, from its Brain Health Summit to the week-long exhibition in the European Parliament\, therefore offering an unprecedented opportunity to amplify messages\, strengthen collaboration and build a unified momentum for brain health in the European union. It will also connect directly with the ongoing work to establish an EU Coordination Plan for the Brain\, ensuring that Europe’s brain health ecosystem evolves in a coherent and impactful way. \nThis event is supported by Angelini Pharma\, Bristol-Myers Squibb\, Lundbeck and Roche. \nRegister HereDownload the ProgrammeProgramme \nMaster of Ceremony: \n\n \nLisa Burke \n16:00 – 16:05 Welcome and Opening\n\n \nMEP Angelika Winzig (EPP\, Austria) \n\n \nProf. Suzanne Dickson\n President\, European Brain Council (EBC) \n16:05 – 17:00 Boosting Discovery Neuroscience to Drive EU Competitiveness and Leadership\n\n \nJohn O’Keefe\nNobel Prize for Physiology or Medicine 2014 and Sainsbury Wellcome Centre\n \n\n \nJan Schadrack\nHead Neuroscience & Rare Diseases; Product Development Medical\, Roche\n \n\n \nMaria Leptin\nPresident\, European Research Council (ERC) \n  \n\n \nLeszek Kaczmarek\nNeuroscientist and Board Member for Neuroscience\, European Research Council (ERC) \n  \n\n \nKurt Deketelaere\nSecretary General\, League of European Research Universities (LERU) \n  \n\n \nPanayiota Poirazi\nSecretary General\, Federation of European Neuroscience Societies (FENS) \n  \n\n \nTomás Ryan\nEBC Board Member; Chair\, FENS Advocacy Committee \n17:00 – 17:20 Addressing the Unmet Needs and the Burden of Disease\n\n \nGianpiero Cavalleri\nDeputy Director\, FutureNeuro Research Ireland Centre; Director\, Human Genetic Variation Research Group \n\n \nIsaac Middelmann\nPresident\, Resonance Health Europe\n \n\n \nScott Vuocolo\nExecutive Director\, Worldwide Medical\, Neuroscience\, Bristol Myers Squibb \n17:20 – 17:45 Shaping an Actionable European Coordination Plan for the Brain\n\n \nAgnese Cattaneo\nChief Medical Officer\, Angelini Pharma\n \n\n \nGeert Dom\nPast President\, European Psychiatric Association; Scientific Advisory Board Member\, European Brain Foundation\n \n\n \nElena Moro\nPresident\, European Academy of Neurology \n  \n\n \nMEP Nikos Papandreou\n(S&D\, Greece) \n  \n17:45 – 17:55 Towards a Brain-Healthy Union: National Strategies & Multistakeholder Engagement\n\n \nMEP Aurelijus Veryga\n(ECR\, Lithuania) \n\n \nMEP Tomislav Sokol\n(EPP\, Croatia) \n17:55 – 18:00 Conclusion\n\n \nProf. Suzanne Dickson\n President\, European Brain Council (EBC) \n18:00-20:00 Networking Reception
URL:https://www.braincouncil.eu/event/a-european-vision-for-the-brain/
LOCATION:European Parliament\, Rue Wiertz 60\, Brussels\, 1047\, Belgium
CATEGORIES:Coordination Plan,Global Partnerships
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.braincouncil.eu/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/EBC-FENS-Banner.png
ORGANIZER;CN="European Brain Council":MAILTO:advocacy@braincouncil.eu
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260318
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260319
DTSTAMP:20260430T024051
CREATED:20260128T091459Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260311T123338Z
UID:59617-1773792000-1773878399@www.braincouncil.eu
SUMMARY:Brain Health Day: Prevention\, Policy\, Progress
DESCRIPTION:As part of Brain Awareness Week 2026\, the Brain Health Mission\, along with key strategic partners\, the European Academy of Neurology (EAN)\, the European Brain Council (EBC) and the Federation of European Neuroscience Societies (FENS)\, as well as the support of Angelika Winzig MEP are organising a full day of events in Brussels highlighting the brain entitled Brain Health Day: Prevention\, Policy\, Progress on 18 March 2026. The day features three events aimed at advancing both policy and practice to improve brain health outcomes: \nThe European Brain Health Summit (09:30-12:30 CET) will focus on the need for a coherent European strategy for brain health\, spanning early childhood development\, lifelong brain health maintenance\, and the prevention of neurological conditions. Discussions will highlight how aligned policies and sustained investment can reduce the growing burden of neurological disorders\, support economic growth\, and drive innovation. \nThe Brain Health Mission Exhibition at European Parliament (14:00–15:00 CET) hosted by Angelika Winzig MEP will showcase the role of brain health in Europe’s well-being\, productivity\, and societal resilience\, underlining why brain health is a cross-cutting policy priority. The event will focus on actionable strategies for prevention\, early intervention\, and sustainable solutions that can drive long-term impact for brain health. \nA European Vision for the Brain: Coordinating Research\, Care & Innovation (16:00-18:00 CET) will take place at a key moment as the European Union finalises its 10th Framework Programme for Research and Innovation\, offering a unique window to ensure the brain is firmly anchored in EU policy agendas. Featuring EBC and FENS and hosted by MEP Angelika Winzig within the European Parliament\, the event will highlight how coordinated approaches across research\, care systems\, innovation ecosystems and prevention frameworks can accelerate progress and reduce fragmentation\, ensuring Europe’s brain health ecosystem evolves in a coherent and impactful way. \nJoin us on 18 March to attend the Brain Health Day and take part in discussions shaping the future of brain health in Europe: Brain Health Day: Prevention\, Policy\, Progress. \nOrganised by: the Brain Health Mission\, along with key strategic partners\, the European Academy of Neurology (EAN)\, the European Brain Council (EBC) and the Federation of European Neuroscience Societies (FENS)\, as well as the support of Angelika Winzig MEP. \nRegister Here
URL:https://www.braincouncil.eu/event/brain-awareness-week-2026/
LOCATION:European Parliament\, Rue Wiertz 60\, Brussels\, 1047\, Belgium
CATEGORIES:Coordination Plan,Global Partnerships
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.braincouncil.eu/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Brain-Health-Day-2026_1200x200_with-euractive-1-1.png
ORGANIZER;CN="European Brain Council":MAILTO:advocacy@braincouncil.eu
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20251014T163000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20251014T180000
DTSTAMP:20260430T024051
CREATED:20250911T094814Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260219T131703Z
UID:59004-1760459400-1760464800@www.braincouncil.eu
SUMMARY:The Brain as a Strategic Asset: Securing Europe’s Future Through Innovation and Health
DESCRIPTION:On 14 October 2025\, join us for “The Brain as a Strategic Asset”. With neurological and mental disorders representing a leading cause of disability and costing the European Union between €800 billion and €1.4 trillion annually\, we can no longer sideline brain health in the EU’s policy frameworks and funding decisions. Hosted by MEP Zdechovsky\, this event will spotlight how the European Union is beginning to rise to the challenge – through increased legislative momentum on a Neurological and Mental Health Strategy\, the upcoming launch of the European Partnership for Brain Health in 2026 and the work to develop an EU Coordination Plan for the Brain. \nAs Europe navigates a volatile and fast-changing world\, the time has come to acknowledge and invest in our most vital asset: the brain. From digital and demographic transitions to climate and security challenges\, the EU is being forced to adapt – and so are citizens\, whose brain resilience will be key. At the heart of health\, innovation\, competitiveness and resilience\, brain health is no longer a niche concern but a societal\, political and economic priority for the whole continent. \nMore than ever\, Europe must recognise the strategic value of investing in brain research and innovation and encourage the translation of scientific progress into real-world applications across health\, social\, educational and industrial policy. This event is a call to action for policymakers\, patients\, carers\, scientists\, innovators and citizens to come together and reimagine the European Union through the lens of the brain – placing it at the heart of a healthier\, smarter and more resilient future. \n\nPractical Details\n\n\nDate: 14 October 2025 \nTime: 16:30-18:00 (Brussels time) \nHost: MEP Tomáš Zdechovský (EPP\, Czech Republic) \nCo-Host: MEP Tomislav Sokol (EPP\, Croatia) \nLocation: SPINELLI A3E-2\, European Parliament\, Brussels \n\nProgrammeWelcome & Introduction Tomáš ZdechovskýMember of the European Parliament\, EPP – CZ \nTomislav SokolMember of the European Parliament\, EPP – CR \nCarlo CiccioliMember of the European Parliament\, ECR – IT \nSuzanne DicksonPresident\,European Brain Council \nIntroductory Virtual Address Olivér VárhelyiEuropean Commissioner for Health and Animal Welfare \nReal-World Experiences and Unmet Needs The discussion will highlight priorities for equitable access\, stigma reduction and patient-driven research\, while exploring how upcoming EU initiatives\, including the European Partnership for Brain Health\, can build a more connected and inclusive future for all those living with a brain condition.Astri ArnesenPresident\, European Federation of Neurological Associations \nPéter KériPresident\,GAMIAN-Europe \nGenerating a Brain Research Ecosystem in Europe A short\, interactive conversation exploring how Europe can build stronger innovation ecosystems for brain health\, with a focus on cross-sectoral collaboration\, public-private partnerships and existing initiatives that could be better streamlined or replicated.Kirsten M. DanielsenSenior Project Manager\, Danish Life Science Cluster \nPascal MaignéExpert\, French Agency of Biomedicine \nInvesting and Prioritizing Europe’s Most Valuable Asset This session will explore how Europe can translate its growing political recognition of brain health into tangible investment and action. From aligning the pharma review and research priorities to unlocking public-private collaboration and leveraging real-world evidence\, panellists will discuss how to ensure that Europe’s most valuable asset - its people’s brains - receives the investment it deserves.Alexander KullaGlobal Head of the Neurology & Immunology\, Fertility and CM&E Medical Unit\, Merck \nIsaac MiddelmannDirector of Strategic Fundraising\, EIT Health Accelerator \nTomás RyanBoard Member\,European Brain Council \nPhilip SchwabGovernment Affairs Lead Europe\, AbbVie \nConcluding Words Tomáš ZdechovskýMember of the European Parliament\, EPP – CZ \nTomislav SokolMember of the European Parliament\, EPP – CR \nSuzanne DicksonPresident\,European Brain Council
URL:https://www.braincouncil.eu/event/the-brain-as-a-strategic-asset/
LOCATION:European Parliament\, Rue Wiertz 60\, Brussels\, 1047\, Belgium
CATEGORIES:Coordination Plan,Global Partnerships
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.braincouncil.eu/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/BIDs-Policy-Opening-Post-72-x-36-in-1.png
ORGANIZER;CN="European Brain Council":MAILTO:advocacy@braincouncil.eu
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250924
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250927
DTSTAMP:20260430T024051
CREATED:20250512T075419Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251106T133819Z
UID:57426-1758672000-1758931199@www.braincouncil.eu
SUMMARY:Brain Health at the Science Summit of the 80th United Nations General Assembly
DESCRIPTION:Programme of day 1Programme of day 2As part of the Global Brain Coalition\, the European Brain Council (EBC) will host a high-level side event in the framework of the Science Summit at the 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA80) in New York City on 24-26 September 2025. \nIt is estimated that more than three billion people currently live with a neurological condition and 970 million with a mental health disorder worldwide. These conditions represent a high individual\, social and economic burden and contribute immensely to the global burden of disease – in fact\, as of 2024\, neurological conditions alone are now the leading cause of ill health and disability worldwide. The associated costs are placing mounting pressure on national fiscal budgets. Demographic changes—including shrinking working-age populations—are also reducing tax bases and exerting downward pressure on productivity and long-term economic growth. \nThe growing urgency to address this burden has catalysed a global movement to position brain health not only an issue of health or research\, but as a social and fiscal public policy issue as well\, with brain capital as a business and national competitiveness imperative. These priorities are now emerging as central to global conversations around public policy\, economic development\, and innovation. \n \nOver the last several years\, the need to place brain health and brain capital on the global agenda has gained critical momentum through a series of high-level convenings\, pilot programs\, and public-private partnerships. These efforts include regional breakthroughs such as Houston’s emerging brain health ecosystem; national brain health strategies now adopted by more than 20 countries; European Union initiatives led by the European Brain Council (EBC); and global coordination efforts such as the Brain Days at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA)\, the Brain Health House at Davos\, the World Economic Forum’s Brain Economy Action Forum\, and the Business Collaborative for Brain Health. The 2025 Brain Days at UNGA80 build on this foundation—offering a strategic inflection point to sustain and scale action. This gathering represents another step forward in uniting science\, policy\, and economic stakeholders around a shared mission: to advance brain health as a driver of human and societal resilience. \nFor privacy reasons YouTube needs your permission to be loaded. For more details\, please see our Privacy Policy.I AcceptFor privacy reasons YouTube needs your permission to be loaded. For more details\, please see our Privacy Policy.I Accept2025 is a pivotal year to deepen and broaden this agenda\, particularly at the global level. Despite times of change and unrest\, momentum is building at international policy and investment level\, with the United Nations (UN) and its agencies entering a crucial period of strategic planning\, work programme\, and milestone-setting and program design for the post-2030 era. We have before us an opportunity to transform momentum into coordinated global action. The additional insights gathered through UNGA80’s Brain Health Days will directly inform a Global Brain Health Action Plan aligned with upcoming milestones\, including the G20 health track\, the Lausanne Workshop XII\, Davos 2026 as well as key political milestones at the regional and national levels\, such as the launch of a European Partnership for Brain Health in 2026. \nThe topics of science collaboration and research funding remain vital amidst government changeups\, multiannual funding frameworks and timelines ending as well as ongoing discussions for post-2030 budget lines. Amidst instability of national (i.e. UK\, China\, Japan\, US) and international (i.e. EU\, DFC’s\, WHO) funding\, there are also opportunities for growth and diversification. \nProgramme SkeletonMorning of 25 September: Brain Health & Research Across Borders\nClick here to access the programme. \nAfternoon of 25 September: Brain Health & Research Across Society\nClick here to access the programme. \nMorning of 26 September: Brain Health Across Generations\nClick here to access the programme. \nAfternoon of 26 September: Future of Brain Health Policy\nClick here to access the programme. \nIn terms of brain health and public health policy\, the UN will convene their High-Level Meeting on Noncommunicable diseases in the days surrounding the event\, where Heads of States and Government will set a new vision to prevent and control NCDs towards 2030 and 2050 through a political declaration to be decided during the UN General Assembly (UNGA80)\, providing a unique opportunity to adopt a new\, ambitious and achievable political declaration on NCDs towards 2050. \nIn this context\, the Science Summit at UNGA80 offers a rich and unique opportunity to solidify brain health and brain capital as a global development priority— anchored in science\, fiscal necessity\, and economic resilience. The work initiated here will inform and propel a Brain Economy Action Plan to be advanced at Davos 2026\, and feed into the many ongoing initiatives dedicated to improved outcomes in the brain space and a greater recognition of brain science and brain health in our society. \nAlongside science collaboration and prioritization of brain health\, the 2025 Brain Days at UNGA80 will touch on a wide variety of topics\, demonstrating why we must remain steadfast in our work towards strengthening international brain research and addressing brain health across the life course and within all aspects of our lives (brain development\, built environment\, workplace mental health\, etc.) in order to prepare for a brain healthier future for us and generations to come. \nfull programmeRegisterGlobal Brain Campaign
URL:https://www.braincouncil.eu/event/unga80/
CATEGORIES:Global Partnerships
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.braincouncil.eu/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/UNGA-Banner-2.png
ORGANIZER;CN="European Brain Council":MAILTO:advocacy@braincouncil.eu
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250626T090000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250626T110000
DTSTAMP:20260430T024051
CREATED:20250513T065453Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250623T074450Z
UID:57402-1750928400-1750935600@www.braincouncil.eu
SUMMARY:Advancing Brain Research in Europe: A Call for Collective Action
DESCRIPTION:On 26 June 2025\, MEP Romana Jerković (S&D\, Croatia)\, Vice-Chair of the European Parliament Public Health Committee\, will host an event titled ‘Advancing Brain Research in Europe: A Call for Collective Action’. Set to take place in the European Parliament\, this timely event will bring together high-level policymakers\, researchers\, clinicians\, industry representatives\, patient advocates and international organisations to collectively shape the future of brain research in Europe. \nBrain conditions\, neurological and mental alike\, are the leading cause of disability and the second leading cause of death globally. With the growing societal and economic burden of brain conditions\, there is a pressing need for a united approach to brain health and research across the EU. Understanding how the brain works\, how brain disorders progress\, and finding treatments and cures for these diseases is a long-term endeavour; therefore\, making increased investment and support crucial. \nWith the next Framework Programme for Research & Innovation (FP10)\, the European Research Area Act\, the EU Life Sciences strategy and the upcoming European Partnership for Brain Health on the horizon\, EBC welcomes this event as a critical platform to: \n\nReflect on recent scientific advancements in brain research across Europe\,\nAddress the challenges faced by the European research ecosystem\, including funding pressures\, ethical challenges and regulatory hurdles\,\nCall for reinforced EU-level action to secure and expand support for brain health and research.\n\n\nPractical Details\n\n\nDate: 26 June 2025 \nTime: 09:00-11:00 (Brussels time) \nHost: MEP Romana Jerković (S&D\, Croatia) \nLocation: SPINELLI 5G305\, European Parliament\, Brussels \n\nThe event will be moderated by Frédéric Destrebecq\, Executive Director\, European Brain Council. \n\n \nFrédéric Destrebecq\, Executive Director\, European Brain Council \nPlease note that we have reached capacity for in-person registration. You can register below to follow the event online. \nRegister to attend onlineProgramme \n09:00 – 09:10 \nWelcome from EBC and Host MEP \n\n \nMEP Romana Jerković\, Member of the European Parliament (S&D\, CR) \n\n \nKasia Jurczak\, Head of the Combatting Diseases (RTD.D.1) Unit\, Directorate-General for Research and Innovation\, European Commission \n\n \nSuzanne Dickson\, President of the European Brain Council (EBC) \nFireside Chat: A European Partnership for Brain Health: The Emergence of an EU Ecosystem for Brain Health and Brain\nResearch\n09:10 – 09:20 \n\n \nFriederike Bathe\, Head of the Coordination Office\, Coordination & Support Action BrainHealth \nPanel Discussion: Ethical & Regulatory Challenges in Brain Research\n09:20 – 09:55 \n\n \nSabine Hölter-Koch\, Chair\, ECNP Preclinical Data Forum Network \n\n \nKirk Leech\, Executive Director\, European Animal Research Association \n\n \nHervé Chneiweiss\, Director\, Neuroscience-Paris Seine-IBPS Laboratory \n\n \nAlice Accorroni\, RRFS Representative to the EAN Board\, European Academy of Neurology (EAN) \nFireside Chat: From Excellence to Practice: Translating Research Outcomes into Clinical Care\n09:55 – 10:15 \n\n \nAlina Tomoiaga\, Project Advisor\, European Innovation Council and SMEs Executive Agency (EISMEA) \n\n \nAndreas Reif\, President Elect\, European College of Neuropsychopharmacology (ECNP) \nPanel Discussion: Future Orientations to Promote Research Excellence in the European Union\n10:15 – 10:50 \n\n \nJan Palmowski\, Secretary-General\, The Guild of European Research-Intensive Universities \n\n \nTomás Ryan\, EBC Board Member; Chair\, FENS Advocacy Committee \n\n \nKasia Jurczak\, Head of the Combatting Diseases (RTD.D.1) Unit\, Directorate-General for Research and Innovation\, European Commission \n\n \nIsaac Middelmann\, Director of Strategic Fundraising\, EIT Health Accelerator \nConcluding Remarks\n10:50 – 11:00 \n\n \nSuzanne Dickson\, President\, European Brain Council
URL:https://www.braincouncil.eu/event/advancing-brain-research-in-europe-a-call-for-collective-action/
LOCATION:Brussels\, Belgium
CATEGORIES:Global Partnerships
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.braincouncil.eu/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/brain-research-with-logos.png
ORGANIZER;CN="European Brain Council":MAILTO:advocacy@braincouncil.eu
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250318T140000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250318T181500
DTSTAMP:20260430T024052
CREATED:20250206T084235Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250715T104054Z
UID:56236-1742306400-1742321700@www.braincouncil.eu
SUMMARY:EBC Brain Awareness Week Event 2025: Towards the establishment of national brain plans in Europe and beyond
DESCRIPTION:The momentum for national brain strategies is stronger than ever. On 18 March 2025\, the European Brain Council (EBC) held its annual Brain Awareness Week event\, titled “Brain Health Plans Summit: Towards the Establishment of National Brain Plans in Europe and Beyond”. Hosted by MEP Aurelijus Veryga (ECR\, LT)\, Deputy Coordinator of the European Parliament’s Public Health Committee\, the high-level event brought key stakeholders together from across the European Union and beyond to discuss best practices\, challenges\, and opportunities in advancing national brain plans. \nWith brain disorders being the leading cause of disability and the second leading cause of death in the world\, the need for coordinated national and international action has never been more pressing. While countries such as Switzerland\, Canada\, Norway\, Denmark\, and Finland have already implemented national brain strategies\, many others have set concrete short-term goals or are in the process of crafting their respective plans. The discussions that took place during the Brain Health Plans Summit underscored the importance of treating brain health as a policy priority rather than a fragmented collection of neurological and mental health challenges and sectoral approaches. \nA Global Policy Momentum in National Brain Plan Development\nAfter welcoming words from MEP Aurelijus Veryga and Claudio Bassetti (EBC\, Swiss Brain Health Plan)\, the event kicked off with Tarun Dua’s (World Health Organisation) presentation of the current WHO Action Plans\, which aim at improving the prevention\, treatment\, and management of brain disorders. These plans set out clear policy goals for Member States who committed to reaching them by 2030-2031. Such commitments emphasize the urgent need to establish national strategies and ensure coordinated efforts to reduce the burden posed by brain conditions\, neurological and mental alike. \n©️ Sylvain Crasset. \nBest Practices Outside of the European Union\nEmmanuel Chen (Singapore Memory Aging and Cognition Centre)\, Jennie Young (Canadian Brain Research Strategy)\, Henrik Peersen (Norwegian Brain Council) and Claudio Bassetti took the floor as representatives of countries which have successfully advanced the prioritization of brain health at national level\, to share their experiences in overcoming obstacles\, fostering cross-sectoral collaboration and securing commitment from policymakers. Alfred Njamnshi (BRAIN Initiative) illustrated Cameroon’s leadership in prioritising brain health across all policy areas and demonstrating the economic imperative of investing in brain health to support sustainable growth and innovation through a presentation of the Yaoundé Declaration on Brain Economy and Brain Capital. \nCase Study of the Nordics\, Spain and Poland\nSpain’s ongoing efforts to develop a national brain health strategy were discussed by Mara Dierssen (Spanish Brain Council) and Elvira Vacas Montero (Spanish Epilepsy Federation\, International Bureau for Epilepsy European Region)\, offering insights into the challenges of integrating brain health into national policy while associating people living with a brain condition. Poland’s early steps in leveraging its EU Presidency to establish its own national strategy underscored the importance of political leadership in driving change. Izabella Dessoulavy-Gladysz (Mental Power Foundation)\, Cezary Mazurek (Poznań Supercomputing and Networking Center) & Kondrad Rejdak (Medical University of Lublin) also insisted on the crucial role of data and research infrastructures\, and the need to include clinical expertise in community-driven initiatives. The session on the Nordic experiences provided a powerful case study of how regional cooperation can enhance national efforts\, through showcasing examples of national strategies already in place shared by Henrik Peersen\, Mika Martikainen (Finnish Brain Council) and Morten Lorenzen (Danish Brain Council). \n©️ Sylvain Crasset. \nStrengthening the Research and Innovation Ecosystem\nAs brain conditions remain amongst the most complex conditions to understand and treat\, continued research and development in the brain space therefore remain crucial. Karin Hamberg (Lundbeck) illustrated how national initiatives can significantly accelerate research\, drive investment\, and enhance collaboration between stakeholders by presenting Lundbeck’s Lighthouse Life Science. Tomás Ryan (FENS Advocacy Committee)\, Agnese Cattaneo (Angelini Pharma) & Jan Schadrack (Roche) then discussed ways in which the EU could strengthen its efforts to foster the emergence of a European Brain Health Research & Innovation Ecosystem\, particularly through larger-scale initiatives such as the upcoming European Partnership for Brain Health. \nTowards an EU Coordination Plan for the Brain\nA fireside chat between MEP Tomislav Sokol (EPP\, CR) and Elena Moro (European Academy of Neurology) explored the case for an EU Coordination Plan for the Brain\, emphasizing the need for an integrated\, EU-wide approach to research\, policy\, and funding to address the growing burden of brain disorders and work towards brain-healthy societies. The panel concluded on a call to better streamline and align national regulations and policies\, as an essential step towards an ambitious EU Health Union. \nA Call for Continued Action\nThe event clearly demonstrated that\, while significant progress has been made in the past years\, sustained collaboration and further commitments are needed to advance national and international brain strategies. By fostering cross-border alliances and aligning efforts under a cohesive and ambitious EU Coordination Plan for the Brain\, stakeholders can drive meaningful policy change\, ensure adequate investment in research and innovation\, and ultimately improve the lives of the millions of Europeans living with a brain disorder. \nThe outcomes of this event will serve as a key building block for the upcoming strategic discussions such as the World Health Assembly\, the 80th United Nations General Assembly\, the 4th High-Level Meeting on Noncommunicable Diseases\, the G7 and G20 meetings. By maintaining this momentum and engaging with policymakers across the policy landscape\, EBC\, its member organizations and the broader brain community will continue to push for impactful and tangible change in the way brain health\, research and innovation are prioritized on national and global policy agendas. \nThis event was kindly supported by Angelini Pharma\, Lundbeck and Roche. \nWatch the Aftermovie \nFor privacy reasons YouTube needs your permission to be loaded. For more details\, please see our Privacy Policy.I AcceptWatch the Full Recording \nFor privacy reasons YouTube needs your permission to be loaded. For more details\, please see our Privacy Policy.I AcceptProgramme \nWelcome and Opening\n14:00 – 14:05 \nWord of Welcome by Convening MEP \nMEP Aurelijus Veryga (ECR\, LT) \n14:05 – 14:15 \nBrain Health on the Rise: WHO Action Plans  \nTarun Dua\,\nHead of Brain Health Unit\, World Health Organisation \nCollaboration Across Borders: Best Practices for Establishing and Scaling National Brain Health Plans\n14:15 – 15:00 \nClaudio Bassetti\,\nChair\, Swiss Brain Health Plan (SBHP) and Vice President\, European Brain Council \nChristopher Chen\, Director\, Memory Aging and Cognition Centre\, National University Health System\,\nSingapore \n\n \nJennie Z. Young\, Executive Director\, Canadian Brain Research Strategy \nHenrik Peersen\, Secretary General\, Norwegian Brain Plan \n Frédéric Destrebecq\, Executive Director\, European Brain Council \nKeynote Address: The Yaoundé Declaration\n15:00 – 15:10 \nAlfred K. Njamnshi\, CEO and Founder\, Brain Research Africa Initiative (BRAIN); World Federation of\nNeurology Delegate for Cameroon \n15:10 – 15:25 \nOpen Discussion #1 \nDeep Dive into an EU Country Perspective – Spain\n (Panel in Spanish\, EN-ES Interpretation Provided) \n15:25 – 15:45 \nMara Dierssen\, President\, Spanish Brain Council \nElvira Vacas Montero\, President\, Spanish Epilepsy Federation; Vice-President\, International Bureau for Epilepsy European Region \nClaudio Bassetti\,\nChair\, Swiss Brain Health Plan (SBHP) and Vice President\, European Brain Council \n15:45 – 16:00 \nBreak \nFireside Chat: EU Presidency Momentum: Developments of a Polish Brain Council and Plan\n16:00 – 16:30 \nKonrad Rejdak\,\nChair\, Department of Neurology\, Medical University of Lublin\, Poland \nIzabella Dessoulavy-Gladysz\,\nCEO & Founder\, Mental Power Fundacja dla Zdrowia Mózgu \nCezary Mazurek\,\nHead of the Digital Medicine Department\, Poznań Supercomputing and Networking Center \nClaudio Bassetti\,\nChair\, Swiss Brain Health Plan (SBHP) and Vice President\, European Brain Council \nCase Study from the Nordics\n16:30 – 17:00 \nMorten Lorenzen\, Director\, Danish Brain Council \nMika Martikainen\, Chair\, Finnish Brain Council; Professor of Neurology\, University of Oulu \nHenrik Peersen\, Secretary General\, Norwegian Brain Plan \n Frédéric Destrebecq\, Executive Director\, European Brain Council \nLeveraging National Initiatives: Lighthouse Life Science\n17:00 – 17:10 \nKarin Hamberg\, SVP & Chief Medical Officer\, Lundbeck \nBuilding on the Upcoming European Brain Health Partnership\n17:10 – 17:40 \nTomás Ryan\,\nAdvocacy Committee Chair\, Federation of European Neuroscience Societies (FENS); Board Member\, European Brain Council \nAgnese Cattaneo\,\nChief Medical Officer\, Angelini Pharma \nJan Schadrack\, Therapeutic Area Head Neuroscience and Rare Diseases\, Roche \n Frédéric Destrebecq\, Executive Director\, European Brain Council \n17:40 – 17:55 \nOpen Discussion #2 \nFireside Chat: Towards an EU Coordination Plan – Scaling Up EU-Wide Efforts: The Case for Brain Health & Brain Capital\n17:55 – 18:10 \nMEP Tomislav Sokol\, Croatia (EPP) \nElena Moro\, President\, European Academy of Neurology (EAN) \n Frédéric Destrebecq\, Executive Director\, European Brain Council \nConcluding Statements\n18:10 – 18:15 \nClaudio Bassetti\, Chair\, Swiss Brain Health Plan (SBHP) and Vice President\, European Brain Council
URL:https://www.braincouncil.eu/event/ebc-brain-awareness-week-event-2025/
LOCATION:European Parliament\, Rue Wiertz 60\, Brussels\, 1047\, Belgium
CATEGORIES:Global Partnerships
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.braincouncil.eu/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Brain-Health-Plans-Summit-2025.png
ORGANIZER;CN="European Brain Council":MAILTO:advocacy@braincouncil.eu
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DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20241113
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20241115
DTSTAMP:20260430T024052
CREATED:20240123T110614Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241014T122316Z
UID:51822-1731456000-1731628799@www.braincouncil.eu
SUMMARY:Brain Innovation Days
DESCRIPTION:We are pleased to announce that the 4th edition of the Brain Innovation Days\, organised by the European Brain Council\, will take place on 13-14 November 2024 in Brussels\, Belgium. The aim of the event is to bring the wider brain ecosystem together to foster dialogue\, exchange knowledge\, accelerate investment in research & innovation and facilitate business development. \nKey players and experts in the brain space across Europe and beyond will be able to connect through a networking-friendly programme and innovation showcasing. You can look forward to inspiring keynotes\, panel discussions\, the Brain Innovation Days Pitch Competition\, an Innovation Hall\, and much more. \nThe event will take place in the EGG. Located in the heart of Brussels\, the venue offers an outstanding space with easy access by train\, public transport and car (with many different parking facilities in the vicinity). The perfect place to meet creative minds\, exchange knowledge and experience. \n2024 ThemeThis year’s Brain Innovation Days will take place under the overarching theme “Navigating the Brain Across a Lifetime“\, examining the journey our brains take across our lifespans\, from perinatal to advanced age. \nThe main theme will revolve around 5 subthemes:\n🧠 Blossoming Brains: Early Brain Development\n🏫 Building Brains: Schools and Workplaces\n🏥 Timeless Brains: Nurturing Resilience\, Embracing Change\n⚙️ Holistic Brains: Strategies for Brain Health in a Dynamic Society\n🚀 Advancements in Neurotechnology: Pioneering Innovations \nDiscover the programmeRegister NowVisit the Brain Innovation Days website
URL:https://www.braincouncil.eu/event/brain-innovation-days-2024/
LOCATION:Brussels\, Belgium
CATEGORIES:Global Partnerships
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.braincouncil.eu/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/BID-general_2024.jpg
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DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20240919
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240921
DTSTAMP:20260430T024052
CREATED:20240305T072012Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250214T155840Z
UID:53230-1726704000-1726876799@www.braincouncil.eu
SUMMARY:Neuroscience and Society: A Life Course Approach to Brain Health - Science Summit of 79th United Nations General Assembly
DESCRIPTION:As part of the Global Brain Coalition\, the European Brain Council (EBC)\, Brain Capital Alliance\, Davos Alzheimer’s Collaborative\, Meadows Mental Health Policy Institute and UNICEF hosted a two-day\, high-level side event at the 79th United Nations General Assembly\, in collaboration with partner organizations\, in the framework of the Science Summit at the 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA79) in New York City on 19-20 September 2024 at Cure. \nIn line with the Science Summit’s core focus of examining policy\, regulatory and financial environments needed to implement and sustain the science mechanisms required to support global scientific collaborations and demonstrate the role and contribution of science in attaining the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)\, the two-day event highlighted existing partnerships and the immense potential and benefits of extending global collaboration in the brain space\, for science\, policymaking\, and society as a whole. \nBrain disorders – encompassing neurological diseases and disorders and mental illnesses – are widespread\, disabling\, and difficult to treat. In fact\, it is estimated that up to three billion people worldwide live with a neurological condition and 970 million people around the world were living with a mental health disorder as of 2019. These conditions represent a high individual\, social and economic burden and contribute immensely to the global burden of disease – in fact\, as of 2024\, neurological conditions alone are now the leading cause of ill health and disability worldwide. \nTo work towards explicit and tangible next steps in solidifying global efforts in addressing the burden and overall brain health\, this two-day event showcased the importance and urgency of prioritizing brain health across all policies at the global level and build on the Call to Action launched at UNGA78. Addressing the immense global burden of brain disorders means investing in research and innovation in the brain health space to power our understanding of the brain\, stay ahead in the quest to find treatment and cures and work to prevent any further increase in the prevalence of these conditions. Furthermore\, at the socio-economic level\, policies and investments to boost brain power can increase productivity\, stimulate greater creativity and economic dynamism\, afford social cohesion\, and create a more resilient\, adaptable\, and sustainability-engaged populace. \nKey stakeholders from across the wider brain community – scientific\, clinical\, economic\, industry – and other relevant actors met to present on their work and co-create towards further action to place brain health at the top of global policy agendas in the post-Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) era. This action was incredibly timely\, particularly in 2024\, where 64 countries worldwide are hosting major elections and we are witnessing times of major political\, economic\, and overall societal shifts and instability. Furthermore\, at the global level\, the United Nations enters a period of preparation for the future\, with the Summit of the Future kicking off during UNGA79 to plan for the post-2030 agenda and a High-Level Conference on NCDs planned in 2025. \nThe days focused on three key areas\, through presentations\, guided panel discussions and interactive discussion: \n\nThe challenge\, impact and need for action;\nBrain health and society – the brain in the life course;\nBoosting global partnerships\, capacity building and investing in neuroscience.\n\nTopics touched on throughout the two days showcased just how relevant the brain and brain health is to society\, not only in terms of burden of disease\, healthcare and research\, but also touching key issues such as the built environment\, school-centred care\, neuroscience in policymaking and judiciary decision making\, neurotechnology and so much more. Watch the full event recording on YouTube the follow key moments\, panel discussions and presentations from the high-level conference\, including a Keynote Address by the Governor of New York\, Kathy Hochul. \nRead our Press Release announcing the formation of the Global Brain Coalition. \n \nFinal AgendaScience SummitDay 1 2024 Full Day RecordingFor privacy reasons YouTube needs your permission to be loaded. For more details\, please see our Privacy Policy.I AcceptDay 2 2024 Full Day RecordingFor privacy reasons YouTube needs your permission to be loaded. For more details\, please see our Privacy Policy.I Accept2023 AftermovieFor privacy reasons YouTube needs your permission to be loaded. For more details\, please see our Privacy Policy.I Accept\nThis event was part of a series of Brain Days at the Science Summit of the 79th United Nations General Assembly. An additional event\, The Brain Economy for One Health: 21st Century Response to 21st Century Challenges\, took place on 18 September 2024\, prominently placing brain health and the brain economy high on the UNGA79 side events agenda.
URL:https://www.braincouncil.eu/event/unga79/
LOCATION:Cure.\, 345 Park Ave S\, New York\, NY\, 10010\, United States
CATEGORIES:Global Partnerships
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.braincouncil.eu/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Event-Banners-6.png
ORGANIZER;CN="European Brain Council":MAILTO:advocacy@braincouncil.eu
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DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20240307T110000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20240307T130000
DTSTAMP:20260430T024052
CREATED:20240202T095500Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240327T121719Z
UID:52140-1709809200-1709816400@www.braincouncil.eu
SUMMARY:EBC Brain Awareness Week Event 2024: No Health Without Brain Health
DESCRIPTION:Across the globe\, society is facing brain challenges like never before — improving the health and wellbeing of citizens has become the top priority for many governments and brain health should not be left behind. In the lead up to Brain Awareness Week 2024\, EBC will hold its annual event around brain health awareness in line with its ongoing advocacy work such as the Pledge for Science\, Global Call to Action and 2024 EU Elections Manifesto\, which all call for increased attention\, prioritisation and investment in brain health at the European and global levels. \nBrain Awareness Week is the global campaign to increase public awareness of the progress and benefits of brain research. Every March\, the week unites the efforts of partner organizations world-wide in a celebration of the brain for people of all ages. EBC takes part annually with an initiative to promote and communicate on brain health and research\, showcasing ongoing efforts to prevent and treat brain disorders – neurological and mental alike – in Europe. The goal of these activities is to gain more attention for brain health\, not only from within the wider brain community but also from EU policymakers and the public\, to ensure that more resources are channelled towards prevention awareness\, research on the brain and for the 179 million Europeans currently living with some form of brain condition. \nThe event was held in the European Parliament in Brussels on 7 March 2024\, hosted by Member of European Parliament (MEP) Colm Markey (EPP\, IE)\, bringing together stakeholders in the space\, including clinicians\, researchers\, patients\, and additional MEPs and civil servants. Key policy asks were presented by the brain community and showcased the importance of placing the brain as a top health and research priority in the EU; not only to tackle the growing burden of brain disorders in Europe — neurological and mental alike—but to recognise that by prioritising the brain\, we prioritise the health of all citizens: to live in health and in happiness\, to power our labour markets and economies\, and to build for future generations. Instead of divesting in a cost\, policymakers and society at large should view the prioritization and support of brain research as an investment into prevention\, wellness\, and optimization.\nOfficial AftermovieFor privacy reasons YouTube needs your permission to be loaded. For more details\, please see our Privacy Policy.I AcceptFull Event RecordingFor privacy reasons YouTube needs your permission to be loaded. For more details\, please see our Privacy Policy.I AcceptSpeakersSuzanne DicksonMEP Colm MarkeyElisa MilaniPéter KériElena Alvarez-BarónCatherine BerensLivia De PickerKevin RostasyAstri ArnesenTomás RyanMichael CreanFrédéric DestrebecqMorten GrunnetMartien KasEvent Highlights“If you look at the cost [of brain disorders] to the health services\, it is estimated to cost €800 billion a year. It’s the equivalent of cardiovascular\, cancer\, and diabetes all put together.” – MEP Colm Markey \nHost Member of the European Parliament\, MEP Colm Markey (EPP\, IE) kicked off EBC’s Brain Awareness Week 2024 event\, No Health Without Brain Health\, by welcoming the audience to the European Parliament and reminding the audience of how crucial tackling the growing burden of brain conditions and prioritising brain health and research in Europe currently is. These conditions\, when paralleled with an ageing European population and the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic\, urgently require increased support at policy level – in terms of public health and research investment— both at the EU and global levels. Prof. Suzanne L. Dickson\, EBC President\, followed by announcing the ongoing #NoHealthWithoutBrainHealth campaign\, which launched ahead of the event\, and will run through the European Elections in June 2024 and into the new mandate\, calling for an increased recognition and prioritisation of brain health\, research and innovation in the European Union. “We not only need to do more\, we need to do better\,” Prof. Dickson stated\, sharing with the audience some of the key policy asks from EBC’s 2024 Elections Manifesto\, particularly reiterating strong calls from the brain community for a European Parliament Intergroup on Brain Health & Research. \nTestimonies on Lived Experiences and Policy Asks from the Patient Community \nAstri Arnesen\, President of the European Federation of Neurological Associations\, then took the floor to share her lived experience of brain disorders\, echoing policy asks from the European patient community. Existing silos across the European Union should be built down\, to foster cooperation between all relevant stakeholders\, ensure they have access to relevant data and be able to make a real impact for patients. “Please stop overprotecting us. […] Patients dedicate time and efforts to provide information\, to provide the data. We want it to be used.” \nPéter Kéri\, President of GAMIAN-Europe\, underlined the stigma surrounding mental health disorders by sharing his own story: “I was lost. I spent years trying to hide my illness. My family wanted me to hide my illness”. Policymaking will not be able to effectively address the burden of brain disorders without actively listening and considering the voices of patients. The need to share knowledge between professional\, policymakers and patients\, coupled with increased support and funding is the only way to tackle the disparities and inequalities that persist for patients across Europe. \nAddressing the Burden and the Challenges of Brain Disorders \n“When we look into the future\, to 2030\, we can see that brain health disorders will be responsible for over 11 million deaths. If we look at disability\, this represents 240 million years lived with disabilities. This is the reason why we are here today: to put brain health at the top of the agenda.” \nLooking ahead towards a new roadmap in brain and mental Health\, Elena Alvarez-Barón\, Global Medical Affairs Director Specialty Care at Angelini Pharma\, reminded the audience of the importance to foster collaboration while making brain health a priority. To ensure care pathways are harmonised across Europe\, research must be adequately funded and supported\, and healthcare systems must be thoroughly compared and analysed to highlight examples of good practices. Co-presenter\, Elisa Milani\, Senior Consultant for Healthcare Area at The European House – Ambrosetti\, then presented the Headway Initiative\, a concrete example highlighting state of the art practices in the management of brain disorders. This demonstrates how crucial having proper data available is for policymakers to make informed decisions when tackling the burden of neurological and mental disorders. \n“We have heard a lot about numbers. Just remember that behind every single one of these numbers\, there is a person that suffers. And I think we have an almost ethical obligation to do everything we can\, with the competences we come with\, to help these patients.” \nNext\, Morten Grunnet\, Vice President and Head of Neuroscience at Lundbeck\, spoke on the latest Science and Innovation in the Brain Space\, asserting that individual data is of no interest to the industry: the main goal is to detect patterns in the development of brain disorders. While the human brain is a relatively new field of research\, several breakthroughs are happening in the field\, highlighting the European Union’s position at the forefront of brain research. This position can only be kept if research infrastructures are properly maintained. “From a scientific perspective\, we have a very good and competitive environment in Europe right now. It’s an opportunity\, and almost a need\, that we keep this competitive environment…we have to secure that innovation stays in Europe.” \nCatherine Berens\, Deputy Head of Unit\, DG Research and Innovation\, People Directorate – D1 ‘Combatting Diseases\, European Commission\, provided insight on the State of Brain Research in Europe\, detailing the various initiatives funded by the European Union to promote and foster brain health\, research and innovation. Over the next few years\, the main goal will be to structure the European brain research ecosystem around umbrella initiatives\, such as the CSA BrainHealth (in which EBC is a partner) –paving the way towards a European Brain Health Partnership in 2026. While the need for increased research and investment is real\, prevention must not be left aside\, as it also plays a crucial role in tackling the burden of brain conditions. \n“We have come to a point where time is really ripe to go to the next level and bring these initiatives together […] under the same umbrella to further strengthen the European brain area and boost European competitiveness in that field.”. \nPanel Discussion: Policy Asks from the Brain Community in View of the EU Elections \nFrédéric Destrebecq\, Executive Director of the European Brain Council\, opened the panel of EBC Members representing the leading European scientific and clinical organisations\, inviting them to relay key policy asks from the brain community ahead of the 2024 European Elections. \n“Brain health does not start in adulthood. Brain health starts even before pregnancy\,” Prof. Kevin Rostasy\, President of the European Paediatric Neurology Society initiated the discussion by highlighting the importance of considering brain health across the entire lifespan\, taking into account the effects of multiple environmental determinants. Prof. Martien Kas\, President of the European College of Neuropsychopharmacology\, acknowledged the increased efforts of the European Union in funding research projects\, but however recalled that a significant number of very promising ones still remain underfunded or without any funding at all. \n“Time has come to bring the right treatment to the right patient at the right moment in time. What this requires is a fundamental understanding of the brain\, in health and diseased.” – Martien Kas. \nProf. Livia De Picker\, Board Member and Chair of the Publication Committee of the European Psychiatric Association\, then discussed the necessity for brain health to really be understood as encompassing both neurological and mental health. “Given the complexity that we are facing\, we really cannot afford to compete against each other. We really need to collaborate between neurologists\, psychiatrists\, neuroscientists\, psychologists\, and other allied specialities\, to solve the challenges that we are facing.” \nDr Tomás Ryan\, representing the Federation of European Neuroscience Societies\, emphasized the lack of funding in Europe for basic brain research: This lack of competitiveness is one of the reasons behind the current brain drain\, which further undermines the European research and innovation ecosystem. “There is no brain health without brain understanding\, and therefore we cannot have investment without investigation into how the brain works.” Michael Crean\, Deputy Executive Director and Head of Advocacy of the European Academy of Neurology\, urged for coordination and support at the EU level for national brain health plans\, in order to avoid fragmentation and siloing of knowledge across Europe. \nConcluding Remarks by Host MEP\, Colm Markey (EPP\, IE) and EBC President\, Prof. Suzanne Dickson \nMEP Colm Markey reflected on the various presentations and policy asks voiced during the event and reiterated his support for the cause of brain health\, acknowledging the potentials for the creation and need for a Parliamentary committee or intergroup on brain health in the European Parliament during the next mandate\, and the need to break past the traditional silos of neurological health\, mental health\, and address brain health as one. Prof. Suzanne L. Dickson thanked the audience for gathering in Brussels for this event and shared a message of hope for the years to come considering the significance of the discussions held throughout the event for the future of brain health and brain science in Europe. \nSpecial thanks to our event partners for their support: \nSpeakers BiographiesElena Alvarez-BarónDr. Elena Alvarez-Baron\, Global Medical Affairs Director Specialty Care at Angelini Pharma\, is a Medical Affairs leader who has guided and executed key projects across different therapeutic areas and product life cycle stages. Passionate about the enigma of the brain and #brainhealth\, she obtained her PhD in neuroscience at the university of Bonn. The last >12 years she has worked for several companies focused on developing innovative therapies to improve the lives of people affected by neurological and psychiatric disorders\, including among others\, multiple sclerosis\, epilepsy\, schizophrenia and depression. Always inspired by patients\, she believes in the importance of personalized medicine.Astri Arnesen\nWhen Astri was born in Norway in 1962\, her mother had not yet developed symptoms of Huntington’s Disease (HD)\, but she did become sick a few short years later. Her disease progressed throughout Astri’s childhood and adolescence until she finally passed away in 2004. Astri has been engaged as a patient representative and advocate since the mid-1980s.  From 2004-2014 she was the President of the Norwegian Huntington Association and from 2010  joined the board of the European Huntington Association (EHA)\, to which she was elected President in 2016. Astri now works full time for EHA\, but in her previous career was head of department for a unit providing expertise in special educational needs to stakeholders in the educational sector from kindergarten to university level. \nAstri is educated as a teacher in learning disabilities and has additional university degrees in developmental psychology\, management and innovative processes. Through her longterm engagement in the HD field Astri has gained a wide network within the HD community all over Europe and globally.  Astri is also active in the rare disease field through her engagement with Eurordis and the European Reference Networks (ERN).  Astri is also part of the steering committee for so-called ePAG’s (patient reps in the ERN’s). \nCatherine Berens\nDr Catherine Berens is the Deputy Head of Unit ‘Combatting Diseases’ in the People Directorate of the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Research and Innovation (DG RTD). She was trained as a pharmacist and obtained her PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences from the Catholic University of Louvain in Belgium. After having worked for the European Directorate for the Quality of Medicines & HealthCare (European Pharmacopoeia\, Council of Europe\, Strasbourg)\, she joined the European Commission in Brussels in 2002\, as a Scientific Officer in charge of Rare Diseases in the Health Directorate of DG RTD. From 2012\, she worked as a Policy Officer for Pharmaceuticals in then-Directorate-General Enterprise and Industry\, dealing with pricing and reimbursement of pharmaceuticals\, and access to medicines. In 2014 she was appointed Head of Sector Neuroscience in DG RTD\, and from September 2016\, worked as the Assistant to DG RTD’s Deputy Director-General in charge of Research Programmes. She was appointed Deputy Head of Unit ‘Strategy’ in DG RTD’s Health Directorate in 2018\, Deputy Head of Unit ‘Healthy Lives’ in DG RTD’s People Directorate in 2019\, and became Deputy Head of Unit ‘Combatting Diseases’ in 2021. \nMichael Crean\nMichael Crean is Deputy Executive Director and Head of Advocacy at the European Academy of Neurology (EAN)\, where he has worked since 2019. He manages the EAN’s advocacy initiatives\, coordinating with the communications committee. Previously\, Michael worked in communications at the European Society of Radiology and managed FP7 and Horizon Europe projects at the European Institute for Biomedical Imaging Research. He holds degrees in political science\, sociology\, and philosophy from the National University of Ireland. \nFrédéric Destrebecq\nFrédéric Destrebecq is the Executive Director of the European Brain Council since October 2014. In this capacity\, he is responsible for providing strategic direction and leadership while managing the day to day operations of EBC and its ongoing relationships with its member associations and other stakeholders\, as well as representing the organisation in various European and national forums. \nFred holds a Master Degree in Political Science and International Relations from the Université Catholique de Louvain (Belgium). He also studied at the Institut d’Etudes Politiques (Paris) and University of Wales College (Cardiff)\, in the framework of the former EU Socrates exchange programme. Prior to EBC\, Fred served the European Union of Medical Specialists (UEMS) as Chief Executive Officer\, and previously as Director for European Affairs. \nSuzanne Dickson\nProfessor Suzanne L Dickson is a neurobiologist and Professor of Neuroendocrinology at the University of Gothenburg. She graduated with a Ph.D. in Neuroendocrinology from the University of Cambridge in 1993\, where she later became Senior Lecturer in Physiology. She is a leading figure in neuroendocrinology and works within many European Union and international organisations and societies to promote research\, facilitate grant funding and training of Early Career Scientists. Her research into the neurobiology of appetite aims to unravel neurobiological pathways that respond to orexigenic signals\, such as the hormone\, ghrelin\, and that drive feeding behaviours\, not only food intake but also food choice\, food anticipation\, food reward and food motivation. This work involves mostly preclinical studies and includes behavioural tasks\, viral vector mapping\, chemogenetics and RNAscope. She is Secretary and Executive Board member of the European College for Neuropsychopharmacology\, and also chairs ECNP’s Workshop for Early Career Scientists in Europe. She also is founder and co-chair of ECNP’s nutrition network and EBRA’s BRAINFOOD cluster. \nMorten Grunnet\nMorten Grunnet is Vice President and Head of Neuroscience at Lundbeck\, Honorary Professor at University of Copenhagen and CSO at Acesion Pharma.\nDuring his studies\, post-doctoral tenure at UC and further research career he has published > 150 peer review scientific papers and patents. He has held a position as full professor for more than 10 yrs at University of Copenhagen and has extensive experience with large research collaborations. He has co-founded Poseidon Pharmaceuticals\, and Acesion Pharma\, and was in 2016 named Life Science Entrepreneur of the Year in Denmark.\nIn 2004 Morten joined Neurosearch NS and held several research and managerial positions in Neurosearch until he in 2012 joined H. Lundbeck NS as Principal Scientist.\nDuring his tenure at Lundbeck he has held positions within Research\, Chief of Staff in R&D Executive Management Office\, Project & Portfolio Management as Global Project Lead\, and has concurrently served as a key driver for developing and implementing cross-functional strategic projects across Lundbeck: Starship (defining indication space)\, Galaxy (redefining entire R&D organization)\, Constellation (Shaping the project Matrix organization)\nMorten re-joined Lundbeck’s Research organization ultimo 2021 and are now heading the Neuroscience organization as Vice President. \nMartien Kas\nMartien J.H. Kas is associate professor in the Department of Translational Neuroscience\, Brain Center Rudolf Magnus\, at the University Medical Center Utrecht\, where he leads a work group entitled “Translational Behavioral Genetics” that researches cross-species behavioral genetics to better understand origins and develop treatments for psychiatric disorders. \nHe is president of the Dutch Behavioural Genetics Association\, board member and treasurer of the Dutch Neuroscience meeting and the Dutch Neurofederation\, and executive committee member of the European College of Neuropsychopharmacology. \nPéter Kéri\nPéter Kéri was born in Budapest and graduated as a teacher in 1992. He obtained his second degree in Public Relations in 2007. After a brief period of teaching in primary and secondary schools\, he pursued a certificate in advanced travel management. Over the course of ten years\, he specialized in designing special incentive group travel for multinational companies in Hungary\, which allowed him to travel to various countries around the world and gain exposure to diverse cultural environments. During this time\, his outspoken blog gained popularity not only within his cultural circles but also across the country.  \nFor several years\, Peter has been working at the Hungarian organization Awakenings Foundation\, where he is responsible for the foundation's innovations and projects. In addition to his involvement with self-help groups\, he has contributed his own innovations to ensure that people with chronic mental illness in different care systems can access daily assistance\, similar to other chronic patients. \nHe states\, "My personal experience of the life events contributed to my late onset psychosocial problems\, dealing with mental illness at the age of 43 and my journey to overcome it have helped others learn how to navigate some of life's most difficult situations." \nPeter has also co-authored numerous studies and research papers and has been honored with the Anti-stigma Award in Hungary.  \nFor more than 5 years\, Peter has been actively collaborating with GAMIAN-Europe\, dedicated to sharing knowledge and promoting the best models of care\, research\, and self-help for all individuals. He is President of GAMIAN-Europe and Member of the Board of European Psychiatric Association\, Founder of felepules.org the first digital peer-support booking system.  \nColm Markey\nColm Markey is a Member of the European Parliament representing the constituency of Midlands North-West. Stretching from Connemara to Drogheda\, Athlone to Malin Head\, this is a diverse constituency with a variety of issues\, but Colm’s guarantee to you is that he will work hard in YOUR interest. \nColm lives in Togher\, Co. Louth on his family farm\, with his partner Aisling and their two young children.  As a farmer\, an entrepreneur\, and a family man he understands many of the issues that affect our communities. \nHe is a former President of Macra na Feirme and has been a public representative for over a decade. With Brexit and Covid\, CAP reform and our environment on the agenda the need for a constructive voice in Europe has never been more important.  In his role in Macra he was involved in negotiations on behalf of members at both national and European levels. \nColm has a strong interest in Community Development and has secured vital funding for local recreation and community facilities.  When appointed as MEP\, he was serving as Chair of the Louth Leader partnership which has helped to establish over 200 sole traders and small businesses in the previous 12 months.  He has also served on the Board of IFAC\, The National Economic and Social Council and the National Youth Council of Ireland. \nElisa Milani\nProject Coordinator of “Headway – A new roadmap in Brain and Mental Health” and Senior Consultant of the Healthcare Area of The European House – Ambrosetti since 2017 working on initiatives in the Health Economics field (epidemiological studies\, economic impacts\, burden of disease\, policy evaluation). She graduated in Business Engineering at the Politecnico of Milan and has a Master of Science in Health Economics and Management at the University of Bologna. She is the author of numerous reports\, paper\, and articles on communicable diseases (with a focus on vaccines and antimicrobial resistance)\, non-communicable diseases (in particular\, Brain and Mental health)\, healthcare system evaluations and the effect of socio-demographic changes on society\, and of the annual Meridiano Sanità Report. \nLivia De Picker\nLivia De Picker MD PhD graduated with a summa cum laude medical degree at the University of Antwerp\, Belgium in 2012\, after which she simultaneously started her PhD and residency training program to become a psychiatrist. In 2013\, she joined the board of the European Federation of Psychiatric Trainees (EFPT)\, She led the organization as president in 2015-2016\, during which time she hosted the 24th annual European Forum of Psychiatric Trainees in her home town of Antwerp. During her training\, she got the opportunity to work as visiting scientist at the University of Southampton (UK) and psychiatric resident at the University Medical Center Leiden (NL). She also won the first prize at the Antwerp Doctoral School Science Communication Contest. After graduating as a psychiatrist in 2019\, and defending her PhD thesis in 2020\, Livia is now working at the University Psychiatric Hospital Duffel (Belgium) as postdoctoral researcher and medical director of two clinical units of dialectical behaviour therapy for patients with emotion regulation disorders. \nHer work revolves at the interface of research\, clinical care\, and health care policy – focusing on synergies between these three domains and strategies for translational implementation of evidence-based policy. Livia has become an influential early career clinician-scientist who has been constantly promoting the field of biological psychiatry both in Belgium and Europe. She is currently the president of the Belgian College for Neuropsychopharmacology and Biological Psychiatry (BCNBP)\, and a board member of the European Psychiatric Association (EPA). Within ECNP\, she has fostered educational opportunities for early career researchers through her involvement in the Early Career Advisory Panel (2015-2019)\, Educational Committee (2017-2019)\, Abstract & Poster Committee (2019-2022) and Workshop Committee (2023-ongoing). Currently she is also co-chair of the ECNP Immuno-NeuroPsychiatry Network and is leading international collaborative research projects on COVID-19 and mental illness. \nKevin Rostasy\nProfessor Kevin Rostasy is the current President of the European Paediatric Neurology Society (EPNS) and has been Head of Paediatric Neurology at Witten/Herdecke University\, Children’s Hospital Datteln\, in Germany since 2014. From 2007 to 2014 he was Head of Paediatric Neurology\, Medical University Innsbruck\, Austria\, after spending 6 years as a Paediatric Neurologist at the Medical University\, Göttingen\, Germany where he gained his PhD in 2006. During his training he spent time working at the Hospital for Children\, Boston\, USA and the Royal Aberdeen Children’s Hospital\, Scotland. \nHis main field of clinical and research interested is neuroimmunology (MOGAD\, MS\, OMS\, Autoimmune encephalitis\, GBS/CIDP). An advocate for equitable access to the highest standard of patient care in neurology for children\, he is involved in many collaborations including being Head of EPNS Research Group Neuroinflammatory Diseases and a longstanding a member of the German Society of Neuropediatrics (GNP). \nTomás Ryan\nTomás originally graduated from Trinity College Dublin in 2005 with a BA in genetics. He completed his Ph.D. in molecular neuroscience with Seth Grant at the University of Cambridge and the Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute in 2009. His thesis work was supported by a Wellcome Trust PhD Fellowship. Following a year as Junior Research Fellow at Wolfson College\, University Cambridge\, he relocated to the USA to work as a Postdoctoral Researcher in the group of Susumu Tonegawa (Nobel Laureate\, 1987) at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) (2010-2016). At MIT he was centrally involved in the development of novel genetic methods that allow for the labelling and manipulation of specific memory engrams in the rodent brain. This work was supported by Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) and RIKEN Brain Sciences Institute\, Japan. He started his research group in 2016 at Trinity College Dublin\, where he is Assistant Professor of Neuroscience. Tomás also holds a joint faculty position at the Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health at the University of Melbourne\, Australia. His research is supported by a European Research Council (ERC) Starting Grant\, a Science Foundation Ireland (SFI) President of Ireland Young Researcher Award (PIYRA)\, and a Jacobs Foundation Fellowship. Outside of science\, Tomás’ interests include travel\, reading\, philosophy\, and politics.
URL:https://www.braincouncil.eu/event/baw2024/
LOCATION:European Parliament\, Rue Wiertz 60\, Brussels\, 1047\, Belgium
CATEGORIES:Global Partnerships
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ORGANIZER;CN="European Brain Council":MAILTO:advocacy@braincouncil.eu
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