A working group of patients' organisations was first created in 2003. Following endorsement of its framework of interaction by EMA's Management Board, the working group was formalised into an official working party, the PCWP. Building on the importance of multi-stakeholder dialogue, the PCWP regularly holds its annual meetings jointly with the Healthcare Professionals' Working Party.  The PCWP is a unique platform for exchange and dialogue with patients and consumers on all issues related to medicines. The EMA is proud of the work of the PCWP and this anniversary meeting will be an opportunity to reflect on past successes and to plan for the future.