[Address at the academic session of the creation of the European College of Neuropsychopharmacology].

Psychopharmacology has had a profound influence on the understanding of the basic mechanisms of the brain and on the treatment of mental disorders, which are among the major morbidity factors of modern societies. In recent years, there has not only been an almost paralyzing increase in paperwork and committees but also an increasing gap, in Europe, between the research potential and the actual achievements. If we are to ensure that Europe's place at the forefront of psychopharmacology is not endangered, we need a European- wide research and administrative strategy. I wish that the ECNP will evolve quickly into a respected counterpart of the American College of Neuropsychopharmacology and so provide a valuable stimulus for high quality research.