Following the identification of IBD as a recognisable chronic illness, specific self-help groups began to appear cross Europe. By the mid 1980s, most of the groups which now constitute the European National Associations for Crohn's and Colitis patients had been formed. Further development of these organisations has reflected the growth of IBD diagnosis, the increasing visibility of the benefits of self-help associations and their increasing roles.

In order to improve links and collaboration between patients and medical care professionals EFCCA is also assisted by a Europe-wide team of eminent Medical Patrons.

Additionally, IBD is included within the group of “rare diseases” acknowledged by the European Commission. This choice highlights the importance of joining forces and, once again, EFCCA and its national members play an important role in order to catch the eye not only of the EU institutions, but also of EU citizens and decision makers both at a national and transnational level.

EFCCA timeline

1990 – Freiburg (Germany) : a number of the national associations' representatives meet together to establish the European Federation of Crohn's & Ulcerative Colitis Associations

1993 - Strasbourg:  EFCCA is formally established

1996  – Brussels: EFCCA statute is officially registered in October

2008 Dubrovnik– EFCCA new deal was launched  changing the culture of the organisation- Blueprint of a dream [download of the pdf]

2009 – Brussels:EFCCA opens its headquarter in rue Vieux Marché aux Grains 48 in June

2010 EFCCA celebrates in Helsinki its 20th anniversary [download the pdf of the Anniversary booklet]

June 2010 EFCCA launches the first  set of calls for actions [download the future SIX STEPS]

June 2011 EFCCA moves to new premises in Rue Chartreux 33-35, 100 Brussels

May 2012 EFCCA receives support from several Members of the European Parliament to initiate a Parliamentary Question into the rights of people living with IBD in Europe