Endocrinology leaders from across Europe met in Prague on 8–9 May 2026 for ESE’s first Summit of the Presidents, ahead of ECE 2026. Over the two days, members of ESE’s Council of Affiliated Societies (ECAS) and representatives from specialist endocrine organisations discussed how the endocrine community can raise the profile of hormone health in national and European policy.
The discussions built on earlier calls for greater “scientific activism” from former Portuguese science minister Manuel Heitor, who spoke at the Joint Congress of ESE and ESPE in 2025. Two keynote speakers, Professor Elizabeth Macintyre, former President of the Biomed Alliance, and Pavel Telička, former European Commissioner and Member of the European Parliament, shared ideas for how medical societies can make an impact.
Professor Macintyre highlighted the need for national societies to get involved in policy and the untapped potential for clinical experts to influence the decision-making process. She stressed the importance of coordinated advocacy, urging participants to work together to make the case for endocrinology so policymakers understand why the specialty matters.
Pavel Telička offered a policymaker’s perspective on how medical communities can increase their influence in public affairs. The key message was that policymakers are far more likely to engage with clear, concise priorities raised early, before proposals are already underway.
Participants also received updates on three major ESE projects that will inform future advocacy priorities: the State of Endocrinology workforce survey, the recently published EndoCompass Research Roadmap – Policy Priorities for Better Hormone Health in Europe and the endocrine drug availability survey.
A report from the Summit will be shared with participants in due course.
04/06/2026
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