New African Language Translations of IGAP
Epilepsy South Africa recently announced a significant milestone in its commitment to inclusivity and accessibility. Thanks to the dedicated efforts of the Epilepsy South Africa team, branches, and IGAP Champions, the organization released translated versions of the Intersectoral Global Action Plan (IGAP) booklet in Sesotho, [...]
IBE hosts EpilepsyPOWER consortium meeting
IBE, via Epilepsy Alliance Europe [EAE], hosted the latest meeting of the EpilepsyPOWER project in Dublin, Ireland. Taking place from October 31 to November 1st, 2023, the consortium met to discuss the creation of 14 learning modules that will target both people with epilepsy, and [...]
The International Bureau For Epilepsy Invites Applications for New Job Positions
The International Bureau for Epilepsy [IBE] is seeking candidates to apply for two newly created positions: Communications Officer and Engagement Officer. IBE was established in 1961 and has grown to over 160 chapters in over 110 countries; the global voice of people with epilepsy. IBE [...]
Reflections on 35th International Epilepsy Congress
The curtains may have closed on the 35th International Congress (IEC), but the echoes of the event continue to resonate with us. We want to share with you some of the highlights from this unforgettable event. New Hashtag Created: To amplify the voices of lived [...]
Established in 1961, the International Bureau for Epilepsy (IBE) is an international organisation for national epilepsy organisations (IBE chapters) that exists to provide support for a strong global network, encourage the development of new chapters in underserved areas of the world, and to encourage communication and collaboration among all members so as to meet our mission and vision.
Our members are patient/family focused and driven organisations and we work collaboratively with our professional and government partners worldwide.
Our strategic priorities are to ensure that epilepsy is
recognised as a health priority worldwide; that the human and civil rights of people with epilepsy are enhanced and protected wherever they might live; that people with epilepsy are empowered to maximise quality of life; and that research into prevention, treatment, care and consequences of epilepsy are promoted.
We work to achieve these priorities through a range of programs including:
- Public Information and Health Education
- Advocacy
- International Best Practice Exchange
- Helping Build Communities of Care
Sign Up to the IBE Newsletter
What is Epilepsy?

Epilepsy is one of the most common serious diseases affecting more than 50 million people globally. There are many difference causes for epilepsy including genetic disposition, head trauma or brain tumour.

Epilepsy affects almost every aspect in the life of the person diagnosed with the disease. For many people with epilepsy, the stigma attached to the disease is more difficult to deal with than the disease itself.

People with epilepsy have a 3-6 times greater risk of premature death. Many of the deaths from epilepsy could be prevented with appropriate medication and treatment.