History of WOFAPS (1963–2019)
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In brief
In brief
Historical overview of the World Federation of Associations of Pediatric Surgery (WOFAPS) from its formation in 1963 through 2019, tracing its evolution from early national societies to a unified global organization. Highlights the landmark 2001 Kyoto Declaration establishing every child's right to specialized surgical care and the Federation's ongoing mission to advance pediatric surgical education and collaboration worldwide.
Written by the GCMD Library team from the article.
Abstract
The formation of the World Federation of Associations of Pediatric Surgery (WOFAPS) was an important unifying force in the emergence of pediatric surgery as a distinct specialty. Beginning with the formation of several national societies in the early ‘60s, an early, multinational effort was created. This was in large part fostered by the International Pediatric Association (IPA), which lent logistical support from the medical pediatric community to the pediatric surgeons. In 2001, the mission of the Federation was formalized to focus on the development and education of surgeons serving children, in all parts of the world. This was articulated in the famous Kyoto Declaration of Pediatric Surgery: “Every infant and child who suffers from an illness or disease has the right to be treated in an environment devoted to their care by a pediatric medical or surgical specialist”. This vision was unique at the time and foreshadowed the major increase in advocacy activity which has emerged in recent years. While the mission has evolved with time, the present organization continues to hold true to the guiding principles of the original founders and seeks to improve the quality of “Surgical Care for the child, no matter where they live”. Education and collaboration across borders underpins the organization’s endeavors.