On March 31, 50 ACH members came together for the first ACH Knowledge Session, focusing on the European Health Data Space (EHDS).

After a welcome by director Eco de Geus, project manager Emiel Hoogendijk shared an update on ACH. The network continues to grow, with DREAMS recently joining as the 25th cohort. The 2026 Roadmap was also introduced, outlining a new project-based way of working, with a focus on data linkage, legal support and developing a shared approach to data access.

This was followed by the launch of the ACH Knowledge Platform by data stewards Quint Olislagers and Awa Gassama. The platform serves as a central hub where researchers can find information, tools and practical documents related to cohort research, data linkage and procedures. ACH members can access the Knowledge Platform via this link. The platform is managed by the ACH cohort support team and will continue to grow over time with more information, documents, and tools being added.

Alongside the platform, a new linkage tool was introduced by data manager Sharon Remmelzwaal. This tool includes a comprehensive manual and an interactive infographic to guide researchers in linking cohort data with Statistics Netherlands (CBS) microdata.

Next, Susanne Rebers (program manager ELSI) and Maartje Bal (Legal expert in health law and data protection) from Health-RI took the stage to shed light on the EHDS. What will this upcoming European legislation mean for the use and sharing of cohort data? The session offered a first look at both the opportunities and responsibilities ahead, followed by an interactive deep dive exploring different roles and real-world scenarios.

The session closed with a reflective (and slightly humorous) note by Eco de Geus. While the implementation of the EHDS may take time, possibly longer than expected, it clearly points towards a more connected and collaborative European data landscape.

The slides from this meeting are available on the ACH Knowledge Platform (accessible to ACH members).

ACH Knowledge Sessions are focused, in-person meetings that bring together cohort researchers and professionals to share expertise, discuss research, strengthen connections, and contribute to the ACH knowledge platform.