Organizer
Women Cancer Europe (WCE). Co-founded by Atefeh Sadeghi (Founder & President, Cancer Survivor), Lasma Nikolaisone (Co-Founder, Cancer Survivor), and Irune Bolaños Atxotegi (Co-Founder, Cancer Carer)
What is it?
The first dedicated pan-European space designed by, with, and for women affected by cancer, clinicians, policymakers, researchers, civil society, and industry. The Assembly aims to correct structural inequalities and systemic blind spots in European policy, research, and care design that affect women
Rather than just discussing issues, participants will co-create a formal mandate, actionable policy recommendations to submit to health institutions and governments, and help shape the first European Care Circles
What will participants learn/Do?
The program is structured around 10 thematic areas across three days, covering the entire cancer pathway from diagnosis through treatment to long-term survivorship. Overlooked topics such as mental health, sexual health, quality of life, employment, caregiving, financial stability, gender-specific guidelines in research, and clinical trial representation will be prioritized. The format includes speeches, debate panels, and co-creation workshops.
Who is the program designed for?
Patients, survivors, carers, healthcare professionals, researchers, policymakers, and industry representatives. It is deliberately designed to be accessible to all, especially patients with no prior experience in advocacy or policy.
Who can apply?
- Women affected by any type of cancer, survivors, and carers.
- Healthcare professionals and researchers.
- Policymakers and industry representatives.
Geographic eligibility
- Europe / International (Focused on European policy and representation, but welcoming to the wider community).
Format
- Hybrid (In-person in Brussels, Belgium, and online).
Duration
- 3 days (28–30 September 2026).
Cost
- Free registration. However, participants must cover all their own travel and accommodation expenses.
Scholarships available?
- No. There are currently no financial supports or travel grants available for this meeting.
What will you gain?
- Engagement training: Build advocacy skills even with no prior experience.
- Policy impact: Help co-design actionable policy recommendations submitted directly to governments and industry.
- Unparalleled networking: Collaborate directly across 6 major stakeholder groups at a single table.
Apply / Register here: assembly2026@womencancer.eu (or via the official registration pathways on their website).
You can also read: By Women, for Women: The Untold Stories at the Roots of Oncology