ECTRIMS and Congrex partnership in MS research. Since 1999, Congrex Switzerland has had the privilege of partnering with the European Committee for Treatment and Research in Multiple Sclerosis (ECTRIMS). This collaboration has been instrumental in advancing multiple sclerosis (MS) research and care, bringing together professionals from around the world to share knowledge, innovate, and improve patient outcomes. One aspect worth knowing is that the congress held in 1999 took place in Basel, where Congrex Switzerland is based.
Over the years, the congress has seen substantial growth, attracting a total of over 130,000 participants from 1999 to 2023. In 1999 the conference had around 2,000 participants and reached its peak in 2017 in Paris, with over 10,000 participants.
A HISTORY OF ECTRIMS
ECTRIMS, founded in the early 1980s by Dutch neurologist Otto Hommes and his European colleagues, has grown to become the largest professional organisation in Europe—and indeed, the world—dedicated to MS. The organisation’s inception was driven by the need to strengthen communication and enhance research among professionals focused on MS. This collaborative spirit was formalised with the first congress held in 1984, and since then, ECTRIMS has held annual meetings across various European countries.
THE MISSION AND VISION OF ECTRIMS
ECTRIMS is committed to facilitating communication, creating synergies, and promoting research and learning among professionals to ultimately benefit those affected by MS. The organisation works closely with researchers, clinicians, and other stakeholders globally to foster networking and collaboration opportunities. Their mission is clear: to support and enhance both basic and clinical research, and to improve clinical outcomes for MS patients.
THE ROLE OF CONGREX SWITZERLAND
For over two decades, Congrex has been at the forefront of organising ECTRIMS’s annual congresses and workshops. These events are pivotal in driving the MS research agenda forward, providing platforms for researchers and clinicians to present their findings, discuss new ideas, and collaborate on innovative solutions. The meticulous planning and execution of these events by Congrex have ensured that ECTRIMS can continue to make a profound impact on the MS community.
ECTRIMS AND CONGREX PARTNERSHIP IN MS RESEARCH: A SHARED COMMITMENT TO EXCELLENCE
The partnership between Congrex and ECTRIMS is more than just logistical support; it is a shared commitment to excellence in MS research and patient care. Congrex’s dedication to facilitating seamless events allows ECTRIMS to focus on its core mission of improving the lives of those affected by MS. Together, they have created an environment where groundbreaking research is shared, new collaborations are forged, and the future of MS treatment is shaped.
Olivia Montanari, Key Account Director from Congrex Switzerland reflects on her experiences: “I really feel that we have a partnership with ECTRIMS, filled with trust and positive energy. I don’t have the feeling of being just a ‘supplier.’ I appreciate the open mindset of the Executive Committee, always thinking about how to further evolve the society and work closely with Congrex to shape their future.”
As we look back on the achievements of the past 20+ years, we are filled with pride and gratitude. Olivia Montanari shares a memorable story from her first ECTRIMS Congress in Madrid in 2006: “Attending a congress of this size as a junior meeting planner was really impressive for me, especially looking at those huge two-storey company booths within the exhibition area. The biggest onsite challenge was to communicate internally with the Congrex team via the radio as we had construction workers on cranes next to us, shouting ‘abajo, abajo, abajo… arriba, arriba, arriba….” on our radio channel the whole time.
Furthermore, Julia Bicher, CEO of Congrex Switzerland, highlights a special moment of appreciation from Mar Tintore, the current ECTRIMS President (2022-2024). Mar Tintore expressed her heartfelt gratitude for the exceptional organisation of the 2022 ECTRIMS meeting in Amsterdam, attributing its success to the team’s professionalism, kindness, and support. She also looked forward to collaborating on future projects to further advance ECTRIMS’s mission. In Julia’s eyes, it is a very special thank-you note for Congrex.
Julia comments, “What I think is special about it is that she calls us ‘friends’ and talks about friendship. It really feels like family and working together side by side, a real partnership.”
The journey of ECTRIMS from its beginning to becoming a global leader in MS research and treatment is an achievement based on collaboration and dedication. Congrex is honoured to be part of this journey and to contribute to the continuous advancement of MS research and care.
This is a link to the ECTRIMS website for further information.
