In 1987, the Charcot Foundation was established by the Belgian Study Group for Multiple Sclerosis, an association of Belgian neurologists specialized in MS, with the mission: ‘To stimulate research on multiple sclerosis in Belgium and to raise awareness among Belgian neurologists about this disease’. The establishment coincided with a significant turning point in the search for treatments for multiple sclerosis, where for the first time, immune-modulating treatments proved effective and the frequency of relapses decreased. This progress justified more intensive research on MS in Belgium, where Belgian neurologists and researchers played a leading role. In 2001, the foundation was recognized as a ‘public utility foundation’ by Royal Decree.

Today, the Charcot Foundation continues this mission by supporting innovative research projects and providing financial support to scientists. The foundation plays a crucial role in the fight against multiple sclerosis, with the aim of improving the quality of life for people with MS and ultimately finding a cure for this disease.