The European Union of Medical Specialists - Union Européenne des Médecins Spécialistes (UEMS) pays tribute to the life and legacy of Dr Bernard Maillet, former Secretary-General of the UEMS, whose passing has been met with profound sadness throughout the European medical community.
Dr Maillet served as Secretary-General of the UEMS from 2002 to 2010, a period during which he devoted himself wholeheartedly to strengthening the organisation and advancing the interests of medical specialists across Europe. His leadership was characterised by professionalism, integrity and an unwavering commitment to the values of collaboration and excellence in healthcare.
For Bernard, the UEMS was never simply an organisation, it was a mission. He believed deeply in the importance of bringing together medical specialists from across Europe to improve patient care through cooperation, education and shared professional standards. Throughout his tenure, he attended meetings of the UEMS Sections and Boards, where he tirelessly promoted the UEMS' vision, encouraged dialogue between specialties and fostered a strong sense of community among its members.
His dedication also extended to expanding the reach and influence of the UEMS throughout Europe. Dr Maillet played a key role in strengthening relationships with medical organisations in numerous European countries, helping establish the UEMS as the recognised voice of European medical specialists.
Among his many lasting contributions was his work in the development of the European Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (EACCME®). At a crucial stage in its evolution, he championed collaboration with national accreditation authorities and supported the establishment of agreements that laid the foundations of the internationally recognised accreditation system that exists today. His foresight and commitment helped shape continuing medical education for generations of European physicians.
While Bernard's professional achievements were considerable, those who worked alongside him will remember him above all for his warmth, generosity and humanity. He was a trusted colleague, a thoughtful mentor and a loyal friend whose kindness, humility and genuine concern for others left a lasting impression on everyone he met. His quiet determination, diplomatic approach and steadfast dedication earned him the respect and admiration of colleagues across Europe.
Following his cremation, friends and colleagues gathered to honour a man whose life was dedicated to service—both to his profession and to the European medical community. His passing marks the loss of a remarkable physician and leader, but his influence will continue to be felt through the institutions he helped build and the many people he inspired.
On behalf of the UEMS Enlarged Executive Committee, the UEMS Council, the UEMS Sections and Boards, the EACCME® Team and the UEMS Office, we extend our deepest sympathies to Dr Maillet's family, his friends, our colleagues in the Belgian medical community and all who mourn his passing.
