Structure
and
Governance

The International Horizon Scanning Initiative (IHSI) A.I.S.B.L. (Association Internationale Sans But Lucratif) is a member state-owned and operated organization that functions as a separate legal entity with special not-for-profit status under Belgian law. The A.I.S.B.L. legal structure is only granted to organizations pursuing a charitable goal of international benefit. This status was officially granted to IHSI by royal decree in 2018.

IHSI is governed exclusively by its contributing member states, ensuring that all decision-making authority remains in governmental hands. The organization provides independent, transparent, and high-quality intelligence to support healthcare policy, pricing negotiations, and strategic decision-making for national healthcare systems.Governance Structure

  • IHSI is legally registered as an international non-profit association (A.I.S.B.L.) under Belgian law.
  • The royal decree of 2018 formally recognized IHSI’s charitable mission and international benefit.
  • The organization exclusively consists of governmental health agencies, ensuring full independence from commercial or industry influence.
  • All collected and processed data remains publicly accessible to member states without restriction.

Governance Structure

1. Board of Directors (BOD)

The Board of Directors (BOD) is the highest governing body of IHSI.

  • Comprised of representatives from each contributing member state.
  • Responsible for strategic oversight, financial planning, and policy development.
  • Ensures full compliance with transparency, ethical, and governance principles.

2. Executive Committee (EXCO)

The Executive Committee (EXCO) serves as the operational decision-making body of IHSI.

  • Manages the day-to-day operations of IHSI.
  • Oversees the implementation of the Horizon Scanning System (HSS).
  • Ensures coordination among member states and working groups.

3. Quality Management Committee (QMC)

The Quality Management Committee (QMC) is composed of horizon scanning and HTA experts from IHSI member states. It ensures:

Alignment with best practices from national horizon scanning agencies.IHSI does not accept funding or engage in agreements with pharmaceutical companies.

High-quality data collection and validation processes.

Continuous review and refinement of IHSI methodologies.

Funding and Financial Independence

Member states also contribute through dedicated personnel and expertise in horizon scanning and HTA activities.

  • All funding is generated through membership fees from IHSI’s member states.
  • Costs are shared on a GDP per capita basis, ensuring a fair financial model.
  • No funding from industry or non-state actors is accepted, maintaining full independence from pharmaceutical companies.

Member states also contribute through dedicated personnel and expertise in horizon scanning and HTA activities.

Funding and Financial Independence

Member states also contribute through dedicated personnel and expertise in horizon scanning and HTA activities.

  • All funding is generated through membership fees from IHSI’s member states.
  • Costs are shared on a GDP per capita basis, ensuring a fair financial model.
  • No funding from industry or non-state actors is accepted, maintaining full independence from pharmaceutical companies.

Member states also contribute through dedicated personnel and expertise in horizon scanning and HTA activities.

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