The Societal Impact of Pain

Upcoming SIP event · European Parliament

Chronic Pain, Employment and Economic Competitiveness

The hidden cost of pain

Hosted by MEP Romana Jerković at the European Parliament, Brussels

Date Tuesday 10 November 2026

Time 10:30-12:30

Venue European Parliament, Brussels (Rue Wiertz 60)

150m people in Europe live with chronic pain

~50% report pain interferes with their ability to work

-20pp drop in full-time employment probability with severe chronic pain

3-10% of GDP lost each year across EU Member States

About SIP

Who we are

The ‘Societal Impact of Pain’ (SIP) platform is a multi-stakeholder partnership led by the European Pain Federation EFIC and Pain Alliance Europe (PAE), which aims to raise awareness of pain and change pain policies. The platform provides opportunities for discussion for health care professionals, pain advocacy groups, politicians, healthcare insurance providers, representatives of health authorities, regulators, and budget holders.

The scientific framework of the SIP platform is under the responsibility of EFIC, and the strategic direction of the project is defined by both partners.

Read the full story about SIP →

What SIP does

Three ways SIP drives change

From evidence to advocacy to a growing national network, SIP works at every level to put pain on the European policy agenda.

Raise awareness

The Societal Impact of Pain (SIP) Platform infographics are engaging advocacy tools that raise awareness about the burden of chronic pain, covering themes such as the biopsychosocial model, the prevalence of pain, common pain conditions, and patient testimonies.

View infographics →

Change policy

Position papers, joint statements and an evidence base built for policymakers translate the burden of pain into concrete recommendations for EU and national decision-makers.

Browse position papers →

Build national networks

SIP National Platforms bring together clinicians, researchers, patient organisations and policymakers in thirteen countries, supported by a practical toolkit for setting up and strengthening national advocacy.

Explore national platforms →

Evidence base