Pharmacy forward: Global insights from FIP Copenhagen 2025

Pharmacists converged in Denmark for a groundbreaking event described as the most successful to date—the 83rd FIP World Congress of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences—held at the scenic Bella Center in Copenhagen from 31 August to 3 September 2025. Under the inspiring theme, “Pharmacy Forward: Performance, Collaboration, and Health Transformation,” the congress set the stage for global healthcare innovation and the future of pharmacy practice.Delivering a bold visionThe opening ceremony marked a pivotal moment with the launch of the Global Situation Report on Pharmacy (GSRP) 2025, setting the tone for an agenda focused on empowering pharmacists. Delegates engaged in dynamic sessions aimed at enhancing practitioner performance, fostering cross-border collaboration, and driving transformative health outcomes worldwide.Spotlight on Canadian leadershipAmong the highlights, Canada’s pharmacy sector shone brightly. Dr Shawn Bugden led a landmark session, “Advancement of pharmacy-based primary care in Canada” featuring a robust panel of experts representing both Canadian and South African perspectives. Attendees delved into topics ranging from digital pharmacy innovations and research to antimicrobial resistance, artificial intelligence, sustainability, pharmacist prescribing, and evolving roles in self-care and global health.The Canadian Pharmacists Association takes centre stageThe Canadian Pharmacists Association (CPhA) underscored its leadership through three core messages:Championing pharmacy-led primary care, including minor ailment prescribing and pioneering new clinics.Navigating unique reimbursement models with their associated challenges.Spearheading digital innovation via AI-powered tools and apps.Beyond presentations, CPhA took part in strategic meetings with international leaders and hosted sessions tackling online pharmacy regulation, data management, workforce trends, and advocacy strategies.CPhA hosted their annual Canadian Reception once again bringing together delegates from across the country. A packed room, lively conversations, and a strong sense of community reflected the vibe of Canadian attendees. Canadians recognized with prestigious FIP awardsSherif Guorgui – Fellowship awardSherif Guorgui, currently President of the FIP Community Pharmacy Section and former President of the Ontario College of Pharmacists, received the award which, according to FIP President Paul Sinclair, recognizes contributions given rather than achievements attained.Yazid Al Hamarneh (University of Alberta): Yazid, an Assistant Professor in the Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry at the University of Alberta, Canada, was recognised during the meeting twice: first for his Keynote address during the PPR SIG 2025 Summer Meeting entitled “A Picture is Worth a Thousand Words: Mapping the Current and Future Landscape of Pharmacy Practice” and by winning Best Oral Presentation Award for his presentation entitled “What services do people seek when they visit a community pharmacy primary care clinic”Shellyza Sajwani, a Pharmacist well known in Canada for her work on sustainable pharmacy practices, won the Impact on Practice and Policy Award for a project titled "The creation of a vulnerability assessment for community pharmacies to improve their resilience to extreme weather and other disasters."Looking toward Montreal 2026As the congress ended, CPhA Chair Annette Robinson accepted the FIP flag, officially announcing Montreal as the host city for the upcoming 84th FIP World Congress in 2026. The spotlight now turns to Canada, anticipating another year of transformative dialogue and progress in global pharmacy. As a Canadian pharmacist I am excited to show the world all the work we have managed to achieve and look forward to welcoming our colleagues from around the world.Heba BaniHani is a Toronto based pharmacist, healthcare marketing professional and migraine specialist.

Pharmacy forward: Global insights from FIP Copenhagen 2025

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