I.D.E.A. Ltd. (Innovative Drugs European Associates)

Created to meet the needs of non-EU companies wishing to perform clinical research in the EU

In 1997, the European parliament and the council released the first draft of the EU Clinical Trials Directive. This document was finalised and published as Directive 2001/20/EC on 4 April 2001, and almost all member states have already incorporated these provisions into national law.

This directive sets the legal framework for harmonising national laws and has created one of the largest potential opportunities for clinical research in the world. The legislation is based on Good Clinical Practice and aims to standardise the procedures and improve communication within the 25 member states.