From September 16 – 20, GlobalSkin was in Paris to host the Health Policy Influencers Forum and participate in the European Academy of Dermatology and Venerology (EADV) Congress in Paris. Representing the organization were CEO Jennifer Austin, Board President Marc Yale, Public Affairs Director Visnja Zaborski-Breton, Operations Director Allison FitzGerald, Programs Director Tammi Shipowick, and Senior Advisor Yalchin Mammadov. Through a series of interconnected forums, collaborative sessions, and research showcases, GlobalSkin and its members highlighted the power of united advocacy and meaningful partnerships in shaping better outcomes for people living with skin conditions worldwide.
To view the full albums of the EADV events, click on each photo.
GlobalSkin–Europe Member Event: Health Policy Influencers Forum
The week began with an engaging Health Policy Influencers Forum, where GlobalSkin-Europe members explored practical ways to drive skin patient priorities within European and national health policies. The interactive workshops and strategic discussions helped identify common goals and develop concrete advocacy approaches—drawing on real-world success stories, the momentum of the World Health Assembly Resolution on Skin Diseases, and the insights from GRIDD Study data. The event served as platform for creating a shared agenda for future collaborative projects that will strengthen dermatology advocacy across Europe.
GlobalSkin Skin Matters Reception
Building on the momentum of the Forum, GlobalSkin convened a Skin Matters Reception to celebrate the recent World Health Assembly Resolution on Skin Diseases and to spark new opportunities for partnership. The evening brought together patient leaders, dermatologists, industry partners and policy influencers in lively dialogue about translating global commitments into tangible action. The gathering reinforced the sense of community and collective purpose that will drive the next phase of global and European dermatology advocacy.
EADV Congress Sessions
At the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology (EADV) Congress, GlobalSkin members continued to elevate patient perspectives through key scientific and policy sessions. Contributions ranged from the ERN-Skin session, which highlighted how patient representatives are shaping rare-disease care pathways, to the Euromelanoma session, which focused on prevention and early detection strategies for skin cancer. GlobalSkin also co-chaired a forward-looking scientific program session on artificial intelligence and social media strategies in dermatological practice, demonstrating how new technologies can empower patients while ensuring safe and equitable care.
GlobalSkin’s engagement extended to the EADV Patient Advocacy Task Force Meeting, where leaders discussed the newly merged Advocacy Task Force and mapped out future joint initiatives. This expanded collaboration reflects GlobalSkin’s role as a catalyst for patient-centered policy change and its commitment to ensuring that patient organizations have a strong voice in shaping the dermatology agenda at the European level.
GlobalSkin & PRIDD Booths
Throughout the Congress, GlobalSkin maintained a vibrant presence on the exhibition floor. At the Patient Organization booth, GlobalSkin members highlighted ongoing initiatives, exchanged insights with fellow patient organizations, and demonstrated the vital role of patients in advancing dermatology research and care. Meanwhile, the booth spotlighting the new Patient-Reported Impact of Dermatological Diseases (PRIDD) measure, offered stakeholders a closer look at this groundbreaking tool for capturing the true burden of skin conditions on people’s lives.
Our Commitment Continues
GlobalSkin-Europe’s multifaceted activities in Paris reflected a single, powerful objective: to amplify the patient voice in dermatology and turn global commitments into real-world change. By combining policy engagement, scientific dialogue, and cutting-edge research, GlobalSkin and its members strengthened alliances that will carry our mission forward. The connections made and strategies developed in Paris will continue to shape our advocacy efforts and help to improve the lives of millions affected by skin conditions worldwide.
