EFPA participation at the International Congress of Psychology (ICP 2024, Prague)

EFPA’s experts, in cooperation with representatives from renowned universities and other national and global organisations, such as the International Union of Psychological Science (IUPsyS) and the International Association of Applied Psychology (IAAP), covered a range of topics central to the discipline of psychology.

In a world facing significant challenges, European psychology had a crucial role in addressing essential global issues. The EFPA Board of Directors hosted a symposium exploring how European psychology could contribute to meeting these challenges, particularly by aligning with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and promoting mental health across the continent. The discussion highlighted the importance of psychological presence in politics and society, emphasising the strategic influence psychology can exert in shaping policy and advancing public well-being.

Another session, chaired by the American Psychological Association (APA), delved into the broader impact of psychology on a global scale, specifically through its contributions to the work of the United Nations (UN).

A symposium and a panel discussion addressed the role of psychology in conflict situations, particularly focusing on the war in Ukraine. The discussion on war and conflict explored the psychological factors that contribute to the escalation of conflicts and strategies for preventing, de-escalating, and alleviating them. The panellists emphasised the role of empathy-building, negotiation strategies, and conflict-resolution mechanisms in reducing violence and fostering cooperation.

Additionally, EFPA presented the EuroPsy standard, which emphasises the importance of continuous and specialised education for psychologists across Europe. EuroPsy seeks to ensure consistent standards in academic and professional training, promoting a cohesive and competent psychological workforce. More information is available at www.europsy.eu.

Another panel with EFPA involvement discussed the impact of the International Declaration on Core Competences in Professional Psychology in various countries across the world, specifically focusing on regulatory practices in psychology.

Some EFPA working groups hosted panels on the following topics:

• On 25 July, EFPA’s working group on Community Psychology held a symposium that addressed the relationship between individuals and their communities. The discussion focused on analysing issues at personal, interpersonal, and community levels to address social challenges, promote inclusion, and enhance well-being. Participants underscored the proactive role that psychologists can play in shaping legislation, critically examining existing laws, and monitoring the implementation of policies.
• Earlier in the congress, on 22 July, EFPA’s reference group on climate change organised a panel discussion titled "Psychology of Climate Change – Between Science and Politics." The session explored the politicisation of climate change within public discourse and academic circles. It addressed the challenges of maintaining scientific neutrality while engaging in political debates.
• EFPA’s working group on Geropsychology explored whether concepts like "successful aging" are still relevant and examined the factors that contribute to ageing well. Participants discussed the actions individuals and governments can take to promote ageing well and the obstacles that may hinder these efforts.
• EFPA’s Board of Assessment sessions aimed to develop and improve assessment practices across Europe. They covered insights and impacts of the work of the Board of Assessment (BoA), which influences test use practices in 37 countries, and provided a high-level overview and update of the board’s work, including Test Review Models, Standards in Test Use, Surveyed Attitudes to testing, and the Effects of Digitalisation on Assessment.
• Last but not least, some of the latest developments, challenges, and contemporary issues in psychology education were discussed in a well-attended symposium organised by the EFPA Board of Educational Affairs on the last day of the congress.

Looking ahead, EFPA invites psychologists and researchers to contribute to the ongoing dialogue at the European Congress of Psychology (ECP2025). Abstract submissions are welcome, and more information is available at https://ecp2025.eu.