The Royal Pharmaceutical Society (RPS) has rejoined the International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP).

RPS said the move reflected its ‘commitment to international collaboration and the advancement of the pharmacy profession’.

According to Professor Claire Anderson, RPS president, the decision to rejoin the global federation of national pharmaceutical associations was made based on feedback from members who wanted to see RPS further its commitment to international partnerships.

‘We fully recognise the importance of international collaboration and the sharing of knowledge and best practice with our peers across the world,’ Ms Anderson said.

‘FIP are refocusing their membership offer, and we're delighted to work with them on opportunities for professional development and increased visibility and recognition for the pharmacy profession.’

In November, RPS members voted with ‘an overwhelming majority’ to rejoin FIP, after the RPS decided not to renew its membership earlier in 2022.

Dr Catherine Duggan, chief executive of FIP, said the organisation was pleased to welcome RPS back into the fold. ‘RPS is an influential voice in pharmacy across Great Britain, and their rejoining will strengthen FIP’s objectives to advance pharmacy worldwide,’ she added.

Dominique Jordan, FIP president, emphasised the importance for pharmacy bodies to work in ‘solidarity’ in advocating for the profession and improving health outcomes for patients around the world. ‘We understand the challenges our profession and health systems face as we seek to build sustainable health systems globally,’ he said.