We explored this question at an interactive workshop on leadership in screening, organised within Work Package 11.1 of the EUCanScreen project, designed and led by Institute of Oncology Ljubljana.

In March 2026 we invited experienced leaders of cancer screening programmes from 12 European countries to Bled. The workshop brought together findings from a prior literature review with the practical experience of experts who lead and develop screening programmes on a daily basis.

The workshop used the innovative LEGO® Serious Play® methodology, which enables exploration of aspects of leadership that are more difficult to uncover with traditional approaches. In addition to competencies, we also examined their connections with barriers and enabling factors in the implementation of innovations in screening programmes.

The workshop was designed and facilitated by Primož Mekuč from the ZORA programme, and co-facilitated by Katarzyna Czabanowska from Maastricht University, who leads the WHO Collaborating Centre on Public Health Leadership and Workforce Development. The research team also includes: Urška Ivanuš (Institute of Oncology Ljubljana), Andre Carvalho (IARC/WHO), Rok Hržič (Maastricht University), Kayo Togawa (IARC/WHO), Sirpa Heinävaara and Tytti Sarkeala (Cancer Society of Finland).

Within the EUCanScreen project, leadership—one of the less visible determinants of successful and sustainable screening programmes—has been addressed for the first time. Over the next two years, the knowledge gained will guide the development of the first competency model for leadership in cancer screening programmes, which will serve as a foundation for designing and delivering leadership trainings. By the end of 2028, more than 100 current and future leaders will take part in these trainings within the EUCanScreen project, with the aim of improving the implementation and development of sustainable and impactful cancer screening programmes across Europe.

Authors

Primož Mekuč, Urška Ivanuš