Dear Colleagues,
I’m honored to step into the role of Chair of our beloved IOIBD. Our organization has a rich legacy and has evolved into a highly effective force for improving the lives of those affected by IBD. While we celebrate our past achievements, the time has come to clarify our vision, reassess our operations, and chart a clear strategy that preserves the best of our tradition.
I believe the IOIBD 2030 Strategic Planning Process is more important now than ever. We are witnessing a surge in available treatments for IBD, groundbreaking discoveries in its epidemiology and risk factors, and unprecedented commercial investment—creating a unique set of opportunities. There is a pressing need for global collaboration, informed scientific leadership, and decisive action to harness these developments for the best outcomes.
IOIBD is uniquely positioned to meet this moment. The key lies in our collective effort—working together to drive meaningful change, challenge the status quo, and advance our bold vision with a unified voice.
By the end of 2025, the IOIBD 2030 Strategic Plan will provide a strong framework for pursuing our professional priorities. Equally important, it will reaffirm our commitment to the social fabric of IOIBD, preserving the camaraderie that transcends borders and cultures. Balancing deep friendships with a shared professional mission will be best achieved through a thoughtful, forward-looking strategy for 2026 and beyond.
In the meantime, our members are not waiting for the plan’s completion! I’m inspired by our ambitious, ongoing initiatives that exemplify IOIBD’s spirit and priorities: the WHO Essential Medicines campaign, STRIDE III, the Reclassification effort (IOIBD25!), and our efforts to nurture future leaders through travel and research grants, exchange programs, and the inaugural Empowering Women in IBD Leadership Program.
I look forward to working with a fantastic executive committee, our inimitable Executive Director Marischka, and each of you as we move forward together.
My best regards and sincerest wishes,
David
Please also read our latest newsletter: 21. Newsletter following IOIBD AGM Auckland
