Session 21

The regulatory shield

Defending Europe’s brain health in a volatile world

Organised by the Brain Health Mission and the European Academy of Neurology

As the European Union faces increasing calls for regulatory simplification in the name of competitiveness, this session explores the role of Europe’s health and environmental frameworks as a strategic asset. Policies such as the Ambient Air Quality Directive, REACH regulation on chemicals, and pesticide controls can be understood as part of a broader “Regulatory Shield” that supports brain health across the life course, from early neurodevelopment to healthy ageing.

The discussion will consider how evolving approaches to regulation may influence long-term neurological outcomes, and how even incremental changes in exposure to environmental risks could shape future health trajectories and system demands. Bringing together policy, clinical, and research perspectives, the session will reflect on how Europe can balance economic priorities with the protection and promotion of brain health, while identifying opportunities to strengthen coordination and impact.

Speakers to be announced