Founded in 1988, the Association of European Coeliac Societies (AOECS) is an independent, non-profit organisation. It is the umbrella organisation of European national coeliac societies with currently 39 enrolled member societies across Europe. AOECS represents people who are affected by coeliac disease or dermatitis herpetiformis (DH) and seeks to collaborate with international coeliac organisations worldwide. The Association is actively involved in several international initiatives to raise awareness of coeliac disease and to promote research into the diagnosis and management of this illness. AOECS Aims To represent its member associations at an international level, particularly with European and international institutions. To work for the best possible safety, availability and labelling of foods and products suitable for people intolerant to gluten. To foster multi-national research projects on coeliac disease and dermatitis herpetiformis Duhring. To coordinate the exchange of information related to the coeliac condition, gluten intolerance, dermatitis herpetiformis Duhring and the suitable diet and work for the social welfare of all people affected by these conditions. To facilitate the sharing of knowledge and skills, particularly among new and developing national coeliac societies to promote the social condition and work for the social welfare of the people affected by the coeliac condition, gluten intolerance and dermatitis herpetiformis Duhring.