EMSP Representation at the first EPF Youth Congress 2026 in Brussels

Brussels, Belgium – On October 23–24, 2026, the European Patients’ Forum (EPF) hosted the very first EPF Youth Congress in Brussels under the theme “Securing Young Patient Advocacy in Times of Multiple Crises.” The landmark gathering brought together young patient advocates, healthcare leaders, policymakers, and civil society representatives from across Europe.

Together, participants explored how pressing global challenges, ranging from climate change and geopolitical uncertainty to economic insecurity, impact the lives of young patients and the future of healthcare advocacy.

EMSP Bringing the MS Perspective

EMSP was proudly represented at the event. Katerina Arampetzi, a member of the EMSP Young People’s Network, attended as a youth advocate to contribute to shaping practical strategies for stronger youth involvement.

EMSP also participated in the panel session “Youth involvement in patient organisations: Breaking Silos.” The session brought together patient advocacy leaders to discuss embedding meaningful youth participation into organizational governance and decision-making structures.

During the panel, Anna Revilla, EMSP Membership and Community Engagement Coordinator, highlighted successful approaches from the MS community, from having a youth representative at the EMSP Executive Committee to all the activities that EMSP members offer to young people: from formal membership, to capacity building, helplines and other services.

Jana Hlaváčová, EMSP External Policy Advisor, also participated in the panel discussion ‘Power & Participation: Who Gets a Seat at the Health Policy Table?’ She brought her perspective as a former YPN representative on the EMSP Executive Committee, a person living with MS, and a professional working at the Ministry of Health of the Czech Republic.

Throughout the two-day congress, a central message echoed across every session: young people must have an impactful voice in shaping the healthcare systems that will directly define their futures.

This message received high-level support from EU Commissioner Olivér Várhelyi, who delivered a video address emphasising why young patient participation is vital to the future of health policy and healthcare innovation across Europe.

As EMSP continues its mission to support young people living with MS, NMOSD and MOGAD, events like the EPF Youth Congress reinforce our commitment to building strong, youth-inclusive patient communities across Europe.