Executive Committee

Executive Committee (EC)

The WPA Executive Committee (EC) is a group of seven representatives elected by WPA members at the triennial WPA General Assembly. It's primary role is to guide the work of the Secretariat and to deliver on the relevant Action Plan for the triennium.

More specifically, the EC implements the decisions of the WPA General Assembly; administrates WPA resources; ensures that WPA statutory functions are carried out by all officers and staff; produces, updates and supervises the application of the WPA Manual of Procedures; and prepares the materials for the WPA General Assemblies.

President

Professor Danuta Wasserman was appointed President-Elect at the General Assembly held during the 20th Virtual World Congress of Psychiatry in 2020. In 2023, she assumed the role of President and launched the 2023-2026 Action Plan.

As President, Danuta leads the work of the Executive Committee, ensuring the group remains focused on fulfilling the vision of WPA and on reaching its goals as outlined in its charter and in the current Action Plan.

In addition to her roles as Head and Founder of National Centre for Suicide Research and Prevention of Mental Ill-Health (NASP)

Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden and Director for WHO Collaborating Centre for Research, Methods Development and Training in Suicide Prevention, Danuta also fulfils her role as WPA President by liaising with member societies across the globe, supporting their local endeavours and sharing knowledge and information between them.

Prof. Danuta Wasserman

Thomas G. Schulze

President Elect

The President-Elect's role is to support the work of the President and to fill-in or represent her when she is absent or unable to fulfil her duties. The President-Elect, also chairs the WPA Standing Committee on Planning and is responsible for WPA Scientific Meetings.

Paul Summergrad

Secretary, Finances & Fundraising

The Secretary for Finances is responsible for all policies related to finances, investments, fundraising, auditing of the accounts, contracts as well as for the prudent expenditure of the WPA funds. He works with the WPA Board to set yearly budget.

Armen Soghoyan

Secretary, Scientific Sections

The Secretary of Scientific Sections coordinates the Scientific Sections and is responsible for implementing any policies as related to their work. He serves as an advisor to the Sections and facilitates intersectional collaboration.

Saul Levin

Secretary General

The Secretary-General ensures that the Secretariat properly supports the work of the WPA and EC. He acts as liaison between the WPA board and committees, and ensures members are kept informed of any discussions and decisions. He chairs the Accreditation Committee.