The EASO Early Career Network (ECN) eLearning Hub continues its 2026 series by exploring how research, advocacy, and stakeholder collaboration translated into landmark legislation – the Italian Obesity Law.
- Date: Tuesday, 24 March 2026
- Time: 4-5pm UK / 5-6pm Paris
Professor Paolo Sbraccia (Treasurer of EASO; University of Rome Tor Vergata), will present the advocacy, stakeholder alignment, and political strategy that led to the approval of Italy’s Law No. 149/2025 – formally recognising obesity as a chronic, progressive, and relapsing disease within a universal healthcare system.
Drawing on the publication From Recognition to Action: Bridging Science and Policy through the Italian Obesity Law — A Model for Europe (Obesity Facts, 2026), the session will examine how scientific societies, patient organisations, and policymakers aligned to embed obesity within Essential Levels of Care and the National Chronicity Plan.
Delegates will learn about:
- The stepwise process leading to formal recognition of obesity as a chronic disease
- How scientific evidence, guidelines, and advocacy aligned to enable legislative change
- Key political and structural challenges encountered
- Practical advice for early-career professionals seeking to engage in policy impact
The session will be chaired by ECN Board members, who will also share updates on ongoing ECN initiatives.
Students and early career professionals interested in obesity research, clinical care, or policy engagement who are not yet ECN members are warmly invited to join the network before registering.
English 
French