ESSM Newsletter # 37

3 ESSM Today ESSM: A model of a multinational and multidisciplinary scientific society by Mikkel Fode Mikkel fode, Md, Phd, fEcSM Department of Urology Herlev and Gentofte Hospital Herlev Ringvej 75 2730 Herlev, Denmark mikkelfode@gmail.com It’s been almost 10 years since I was welcomed into the ESSM family and for the past 4 years I’ve had the privilege to serve as representative of the national affiliated societies. At first glance the differences between our individual societies and members are striking - we are comprised of all genders, nationalities, ages, beliefs, and professions. However, from the very beginning, I have noticed something unique about our so- ciety; a welcoming feeling of unity, which is truly rare. I’ve seen how every single member of our society is united by the ESSM purpose of advanc- ing and promoting Sexual Medicine. Due to the nature of our field, it is only logical that we are comprised of clinicians with a focus on quality of life and an unprejudiced open-mindedness. Thinking back, this was what originally attracted me to the ESSM. Our common focus means that when we meet for a few days every year at the annual congress, we enter a bubble in which Sexual Medicine becomes the most important thing in the world. This is inspiring and refreshing, especially be- cause this is not always the case in everyday life in which our field is often pushed into the background by more prioritized medical issues. Therefore, our congresses are deeply important; not only for their scientific content, but also for the inspiration they allow us to take back into our daily lives. Along with growing friendships, this has always made our annual congresses spec- tacular experiences. This being said, everyone who was present in Nice noticed that the mood was different from earlier years. While our local hosts had done an admirable job in making the congress a success, it is no secret that there were disagreements about the future constella- tion of the Executive Committee and direction of the society. At this point, the conflict is behind us with the confirmations and elections at the gen- eral assembly and I have no authority to judge regarding the specifics. The Executive Committee has made it a priority to update the by-laws and improve the transparency of future elections for the individual members of the ESSM. However, in addition to that, the events of the congress deserve some comments. As the representative of the national affiliated ESSM societies I’ve had a unique position to witness the strong link between the Executive Committee, various sub-committees, and the affiliated societies. I’ve seen how different parts of the society communicate and work together. In my experience, this has always been done with a democratic approach and a strong trend to meet the needs of individual members. For example, we have created programs to spon- sor both clinicians from low income countries as well as basic scientists and the ESSM has introduced student discounts to encourage ac- tive participation of young members. However, with our differences, it is obvious that opinions often differ on various issues and emotions may surface as a result of strong dedication. This is both an inherent quality and challenge for a true multinational and multidisciplinary society. Therefore, there is no doubt that disagreements will also be part of our future. Most often, these disagreements will be resolved rationally and peacefully, but sometimes they will become obvi- ous and potentially unpleasant. This is the case in any family and in all gatherings of dedicated individuals who feel that they are working for an important cause. It is crucial that we do not get scared of this and, the goal must never be to eliminate or obscure our differences. Rather, we need to utilize them in order to cultivate a diverse and embracing society. In my opinion, this is exactly what the ESSM has been doing for the past several years with a comprehensive focus on Sexual Medicine issues and a grow- ing number of membership societies. Whenever problems arise, we need to be strong enough to overcome our conflicts, while staying united in our joint cause of promoting Sexual Medicine. Looking into the future, I am confident that the ESSM will continue to display the great wel- coming spirit and great respect for very single old and new member that I have experienced. I am also confident that the society will continue to focus on and benefit the members to whom it truly belongs. The ESSM is a chosen fam- ily grounded in a common purpose to promote Sexual Medicine. Let us remember that purpose and let us remember to view our multinational and multidisciplinary differences as a strength rather than a weakness.