Headway - A new roadmap in Brain Health: Focus Epilepsy

As Europe navigates a landscape shaped by geopolitical instability and the enduring impact of recent health crises, investing in long-term resilience has never been more urgent. Brain health must be a cornerstone of this strategy, not only to improve individual wellbeing, but to safeguard Europe’s social cohesion, economic competitiveness, and innovation capacity.

Co-hosted by MEP Romana Jerković (S&D, Croatia) and MEP Tomislav Sokol (EPP, Croatia), the high-level event “Headway – A New Roadmap in Brain Health: Focus Epilepsy” on 2 July 2025 will bring together policymakers, researchers, patient advocates, and industry leaders. The event will delve into the clinical, social, and policy dimensions of epilepsy, while positioning it within the broader brain health agenda. It will also mark the launch of the latest Headway report—developed by Angelini Pharma in partnership with The European House – Ambrosetti (TEHA Group).

Since its inception in 2017, the Headway initiative has driven a cross-sectoral approach to brain health, tackling challenges in healthcare systems, schools, and workplaces alike. Yet, epilepsy—Europe’s fourth most common neurological disorder—remains deeply under-recognized, with up to 40% of patients lacking access to adequate treatment. This event aims to close that gap through inclusive, data-driven policy, and integrated care pathways. A cross-country roundtable will give patient representatives, clinicians, and MEPs a platform to voice needs and propose actionable solutions directly to EU decision-makers.

How can Europe unlock the potential of its “brain economy”? What policy frameworks are needed to match the scale of the challenge? Join us in the European Parliament to explore how targeted investment in brain health can help build a more equitable, innovative, and resilient Europe for all.

Venue: European Parliament (Room SPAAK 4B1), Brussels, Belgium

Time: 14:30 – 16:30 | Wednesday, 2 July 2025

Draft Agenda

CHAIR: Jennifer Baker – Presenter and Reporter

Introduction and Welcoming Remarks

Romana Jerković (S&D, Croatia) – SANT Vice-Chair

Tomislav Sokol (EPP, Croatia) – SANT Coordinator

Implementing the Intersectoral Global Action Plan on Epilepsy and other Neurological Disorders in Europe: Where Do We Stand?

Nicola Specchio - President-elect, International League Against Epilepsy - Europe Chapter (ILAE)

Donna Walsh - Chief Executive Officer, International Bureau for Epilepsy (IBE)

Unlocking the Brain Economy: Why Brain Health Matters for Europe's Future

Elisa Milani - Senior Consultant, Practice Healthcare, TEHA Group

Elvira Vacas- President, Spanish Epilepsy Federation (FEDE); Vice President Europe Region, IBE

Making Brain Health (and Epilepsy) a Public Priority in the EU-Round Table

Donna Walsh - Chief Executive Officer, International Bureau for Epilepsy (IBE)

Frédéric Destrebecq - Executive Director, European Brain Council (EBC)

Orla Galvin - Executive Director, European Federation of Neurological Associations (EFNA)

Michael Crean – Deputy Executive Director, European Academy of Neurology (EAN)

Vytenis Andriukaitis (S&D, Lithuania) – SANT Coordinator

András Tivadar Kulja (EPP, Hungary) – SANT Vice-Coordinator

Aurelijus Veryga (ECR, Lithuania) - SANT Coordinator

Other voices from IBE Local Chapters

Debate and Closing Remarks

Romana Jerković (S&D, Croatia) – SANT Vice-Chair

Agnese Cattaneo – Chief Medical Officer, Angelini Pharma

(*) confirmed speakers in bold