History and Founding Idea of the Heads of Agencies (HoA)
Following the reform of European food law in 2002, many EU Member States established or restructured their national food safety systems. To foster exchange and mutual learning among the newly founded institutions, the Belgian, UK, and Dutch authorities initiated the first meeting of the Heads of Agencies in 2003.
From its inception, the HoA was designed as an informal forum that gives agency leaders the opportunity to meet regularly and discuss strategic management issues, organisational development, crisis management, and ways to ensure long-term scientific excellence.
Unlike existing fora focusing on risk assessment, risk communication, or enforcement, the HoA places its emphasis on overarching leadership and management topics. In doing so, it has established itself as a unique network that continues to strengthen dialogue, collaboration, and knowledge exchange among Europe’s food safety authorities.