AOECS opens its 38th Annual Conference in Amsterdam

Today, 9 October, the Association of European Coeliac Societies (AOECS) opens its 38th Annual Conference in Amsterdam, bringing together patient organisations, researchers, healthcare professionals, industry representatives and other stakeholders from Europe and beyond. Under the theme “Coeliac Health 2030: Shaping the Future of Coeliac Care”, the conference focuses on strengthening international cooperation and improving the lives of people with coeliac disease.

The annual conference is AOECS's most important gathering of the year, providing a platform for its member societies to exchange experiences, share knowledge and strengthen cooperation across national borders. It also creates opportunities for dialogue between patient advocates, the scientific community, the pharmaceutical and food industries, and policymakers.

Coeliac disease presents challenges that extend beyond national borders, from access to diagnosis and appropriate healthcare to safe gluten-free food, social inclusion and emerging treatment options. Addressing these challenges requires coordinated efforts between patient organisations, researchers, industry and decision-makers.

Looking towards Coeliac Health 2030

This year's programme explores several key questions about the future of coeliac care. Discussions include innovations in screening and diagnosis, persistent challenges beyond the gluten-free diet, patient priorities and inequalities in clinical care across Europe.

The conference also addresses opportunities to advance clinical trials and strengthen collaboration between patient organisations and the pharmaceutical industry in developing potential new treatments.

Through keynote presentations, panel discussions and interactive workshops, participants will share perspectives on how research, innovation and patient advocacy can contribute to better outcomes for people living with coeliac disease.

Celebrating research and successful initiatives

Scientific research is an important part of the conference. An exhibition featuring around two dozen research projects provides an opportunity to explore new findings and ongoing investigations into coeliac disease.

The programme also includes the Young Researcher Award, recognising promising contributions to coeliac disease research and encouraging the next generation of scientists.

Alongside the scientific programme, AOECS is presenting its new publication, Coeliac Success Stories 2026.

The publication highlights successful projects and initiatives undertaken by AOECS member societies during the past year. By sharing practical experiences, innovative approaches and achievements, it aims to inspire other organisations and encourage the exchange of ideas across the international coeliac community.

Shaping the future of AOECS

The Annual Conference is also an important occasion for AOECS's democratic decision-making.

On Saturday, 10 October, representatives of AOECS's 40 member societies will gather for the General Assembly, where they will vote on important matters concerning the organisation's future direction and priorities.

The day's programme will also include discussions on policy and advocacy priorities, gluten assessment methods, and the market for gluten-free products and certification. Coeliac Youth of Europe (CYE) will contribute its perspectives, helping ensure that the voices of younger generations are reflected in the organisation's future work.

Stronger together

By bringing together organisations and experts from different countries and sectors, the AOECS Annual Conference reinforces the importance of international cooperation in addressing the challenges faced by people with coeliac disease.

The discussions, knowledge shared and decisions made in Amsterdam will help guide AOECS and its member societies as they continue working towards better diagnosis, safer food, improved care and greater inclusion for everyone living with coeliac disease.