Public Affairs & Advocacy

Kidney disease affects more than 850 million people worldwide, yet it remains underrecognised in public health agendas, underfunded in research, and insufficiently addressed in health policy. It is one of the fastest-growing non-communicable diseases and, without action, is projected to become the fifth leading cause of death worldwide by 2050 — and the third in Western Europe. Changing this reality requires more than scientific excellence — it demands a sustained, collective voice at the highest levels of decision-making.

The European Renal Association (ERA) is committed to translating its scientific and clinical expertise into meaningful policy impact. Through engagement with European institutions, national governments, and health authorities, ERA advocates for improved prevention, early diagnosis, innovation, and equitable access to treatment. Awareness raising is also central to ERA’s work, through campaigns targeting policymakers, health professionals, and the public.

ERA does not act alone. As an active member of key advocacy coalitions and alliances, ERA works with partners committed to patient-centred, evidence-based health policy. ERA is a founding member of the European Kidney Health Alliance (EKHA) and collaborates closely with its members to place kidney health on the European agenda. ERA is also part of the BioMed Alliance, promoting excellence in biomedical research and increased funding, and collaborates globally with the American Society of Nephrology (ASN) and the International Society of Nephrology (ISN).

On June 1,  2016, three major nephrology societies — the American Society of Nephrology (ASN), the European Renal Association (ERA), and the International Society of Nephrology (ISN) ― signed a declaration of collaboration. The organizations agreed that kidney disease is a global challenge that respects no boundaries or borders. Therefore, all available synergies should be used to fight kidney disease and improve the standard of care for kidney patients worldwide.

To create the best possible synergy, the three societies agreed to collaborate in:

• helping physicians who have just started careers as nephrologists or are considering this possibility, locally, regionally and nationally
• providing kidney professionals worldwide with more consistent, complete and up-to-date information about kidney diseases and treatments
• advocating to ensure access to care and to harmonize efforts to prevent and treat kidney disease worldwide
• creating joint initiatives to leverage the societies’ respective strengths.