The International Association for the Study of Pain (IASP) is pleased to announce the appointment of Rikard K. Wicksell, PhD, of Karolinska Institutet, Sweden, as its new World Health Organization (WHO) Liaison. In this role, Dr. Wicksell will represent IASP in global health initiatives, strengthening collaboration with WHO to advance pain research, policy, and education worldwide.
A distinguished clinical psychologist and researcher, Dr. Wicksell specializes in behavioral medicine and chronic pain management. His extensive experience in interdisciplinary pain research, clinical applications, and advocacy for evidence-based pain care will be instrumental in shaping IASP’s contributions to WHO’s pain-related initiatives, particularly in promoting global health equity and expanding access to adequate pain care.
“Since IASP was founded 50 years ago,” Dr. Wicksell stated, “we’ve come a long way in how we assess and treat pain. Yet, millions of people still lack access to the best care we have to offer—whether in conflict zones, in countries with less advanced healthcare systems, or among marginalized communities. The WHO Guidelines on the management of chronic pain in children state clearly: Access to pain management is a fundamental human right. Ensuring that right for everyone is a great challenge, but an objective worth every effort.”
IASP’s WHO Liaison plays a pivotal role in raising awareness of all facets of pain research and treatment. In recent years, IASP contributed to chronic pain’s inclusion in the ICD-11, ensuring it is recognized, diagnosed, and prioritized in healthcare systems worldwide.
The selection process for the WHO Liaison position was open to all IASP members. Applications and interviews were reviewed by the IASP Committee on Committees, chaired by IASP President-Elect Dr. Mary Cardosa. After a rigorous evaluation, Dr. Wicksell was chosen for his expertise, leadership, and commitment to global pain advocacy.
“I’m excited to be working with Dr. Wicksell,” said Steve Gardner, CEO of IASP, “he is going to help take IASP’s global advocacy to a higher level.”
Dr. Wicksell succeeds Professor Dr. Rolf-Detlef Treede, who has served with distinction, played a key role in establishing chronic pain as a recognized condition in ICD-11, and advocated for pain as a global health priority. IASP extends its deepest gratitude to Dr. Treede for his years of service and lasting contributions to pain research and advocacy.