In Conversation with the WFC Secretary-General
TAC Interview
After a decade of dedicated service as Secretary-General of the World Federation of Chiropractic (WFC), Dr. Richard Brown is stepping down, leaving a legacy that has helped shape the global chiropractic landscape.
Since assuming leadership in 2015, Dr. Brown has been a driving force in advancing the recognition of chiropractic worldwide, strengthening alliances with key organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO), and championing research, education, and professional unity.
During his tenure, the WFC has expanded its influence, fostering greater integration of chiropractic into mainstream health care, promoting public health initiatives, and navigating the challenges of regulatory landscapes across different regions. Under his guidance, chiropractic has gained greater legitimacy on the global stage, with an emphasis on evidence-based care, interdisciplinary collaboration, and policy advocacy.
Dr. Brown’s leadership was tested during the COVID-19 pandemic, a time of uncertainty that saw him working tirelessly to support chiropractic associations and practitioners through unprecedented challenges. His ability to adapt, innovate, and unify the profession during this period highlighted the qualities that have made his tenure so impactful.
As he prepares for the next chapter, Dr. Brown remains committed to the profession, intending to stay involved in healthcare advocacy, expert consulting, and clinical practice. In an interview with The American Chiropractor (TAC), Dr. Richard Brown, DC, LL.M, FRSPH, FRCC (RB) shares reflections on his proudest accomplishments, the evolution of chiropractic, and his vision for the future of the WFC and the profession at large.
TA C: Dr. Brown, as you conclude your tenure as Secretary-General of the WFC, what accomplishments are you most proud of?
RB: One of my proudest achievements has been defining the WFC’s mission and vision. We now have a clear identity: promoting global access to chiropractic so populations can thrive.
Our vision is a world where all people, of all ages, in all nations have access to chiropractic so that populations can thrive and reach their full potential. Our mission is straightforward: to advance awareness, utilization, and integration of chiropractic internationally Establishing this clarity has helped unite our profession under shared principles.
Beyond that, I am particularly proud of the strong relationships we’ve built with global health organizations, such as the World Health Organization (WHO), which has led to greater recognition of chiropractic in international healthcare discussions. We have significantly increased the visibility of chiropractic in public health, research, and policy forums, which I hope will have a lasting impact for years to come.
TAC: What were some significant challenges you encountered during your time with the WFC, and how did you address them?
RB: Undoubtedly, the COVID-19 pandemic was a major challenge. With no precedent, we had to navigate uncertainties and support our national associations in uncharted territory. Additionally, chiropractic faced regulatory challenges, such as restrictions on treating children and government interventions in certain countries. Adaptability and strategic diplomacy were key to overcoming these hurdles.
Beyond the pandemic, there were challenges in unifying chiropractors globally, as different regions have different regulatory environments and levels of professional acceptance. The WFC had to act as a bridge between various groups, ensuring that we maintained a unified voice while respecting regional differences. This required significant diplomatic efforts and collaboration with national associations.
TAC: How have you seen the chiropractic profession evolve globally over the past decade?
RB: Chiropractic has grown significantly, especially outside North America. When I qualified in the UK in 1990, there were 400 chiropractors; now, there are 4,000. Globally, we estimate there are around 117,000 chiropractors, with strong growth in countries like Malaysia, Denmark, and others. The profession is more recognized than ever, with increasing integration into healthcare systems worldwide.
What’s particularly encouraging is the greater acceptance of chiropractic in interdisciplinary healthcare settings. We see more chiropractors working in hospitals, alongside medical doctors, and even within military and veteran healthcare programs. The emphasis on evidence-based care and research-driven practice has helped elevate the credibility of the profession worldwide.
TAC: In what ways did the COVID-19 pandemic influence the operations of the WFC and the chiropractic community worldwide?
RB: The pandemic forced us to rethink operations, shifting much of our work online while ensuring our members had the necessary resources to continue practicing safely It also accelerated digital healthcare solutions and highlighted the need for chiropractors to be recognized as essential healthcare providers.
One silver lining was the increased adoption of telehealth solutions. Many chiropractors found ways to remain connected to their patients virtually, providing advice, rehabilitation exercises, and educational resources online. This adaptability helped maintain patient care continuity despite physical distancing restrictions.
TAC: Can you discuss any key collaborations or partnerships that the WFC established under your leadership?
RB: Our key role as a non-state actor in official relations with the World Health Organization (WHO) has grown tremendously. The WFC played a key role as a founding member of the WHO World Rehabilitation Alliance and contributed to developing global guidelines on chronic low back pain. Additionally, we launched the International Chiropractic Education Alliance to support the development of global chiropractic education.
We have also worked with organizations like the International Board of Chiropractic Examiners to create standardized competency assessments, ensuring that chiropractors meet a globally recognized standard and the development of a Global Patient Safety Initiative. Additionally, partnerships with research institutions have strengthened the body of evidence supporting chiropractic care.
TAC: What strides have been made in chiropractic education and research during your tenure?
RB: The growth of international chiropractic education has been remarkable. There are now more programs outside the US than within it. The launch of the WFC International Chiropractic Education Alliance has brought together educators from around the world to share best practices and advance chiropractic education globally. We are seeing a shift toward competency-based learning, ensuring that graduates have the necessary skills and knowledge to practice effectively, no matter where they are trained. The explosion of research being published by chiropractors in prestigious international journals also represents a huge step forward for chiropractic.
TAC: How has the WFC contributed to global public health initiatives, particularly concerning spinal health?
RB: We’ve worked on multiple initiatives with WHO, including a new Benchmark for Training in Chiropractic. Our goal is to position chiropractic as a key player in musculoskeletal and rehabilitation care, ensuring that chiropractic is recognized within public health systems.
We have also participated in discussions about nonpharmacological pain management solutions to address the global opioid crisis. Chiropractic has an important role to play in reducing reliance on medication for chronic pain conditions, and we are advocating for greater recognition of this contribution.
TAC: What direction do you envision for the WFC in the coming years?
RB: The best is yet to come. The WFC will continue expanding its global presence, strengthening relationships with international health organizations, and advancing chiropractic’s role in public health. There’s great potential to further integrate chiropractic into mainstream healthcare systems worldwide.
I also see opportunities for the WFC to take on an even greater role in research collaboration, supporting efforts to build the scientific evidence base for chiropractic and ensuring that our profession remains at the forefront of healthcare innovation.
TAC*. What advice would you offer to new chiropractors entering the profession today?
RB: Stay adaptable and proactive. Chiropractic is evolving, and the opportunities for integration into health care are growing. Be prepared to seize opportunities when they arise, even if the timing isn’t perfect.
I also encourage new chiropractors to get involved in professional associations and global initiatives. The future of the profession depends on the next generation stepping up and shaping its direction.
TAC*. How has your role as Secretary-General influenced your personal and professional growth?
RB: It’s been a transformative experience. Traveling to over 50 countries, engaging with diverse healthcare systems, and advocating for chiropractic on the global stage has broadened my perspective. My role has deepened my appreciation of the power of diplomacy, leadership and resilience, qualities essential in this role.
On a personal level, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for cultural differences and the various ways chiropractic is practiced worldwide. This has reinforced my belief in the profession’s adaptability and potential for growth.
TAC*. What are your plans and aspirations following your departure from the WFC?
RB: I’ll continue working one day a week in an NHS clinic in the UK and serving as a magistrate in my local community. Additionally, I’ll stay involved in expert witness work and consultancy while prioritizing time with my family.
I also plan to stay engaged in chiropractic advocacy in some capacity, whether through advisory roles or educational initiatives.
TA C: Could you share a particularly memorable experience or milestone from your time with the WFC?
RB: One unforgettable experience was traveling to Iran early in my tenure. Arriving in Tehran with only a letter of invitation and no visa was a bit nerve-wracking, but the hospitality I received from the Iranian people was extraordinary.
TAC. Is there a final message or thought you’d like to convey to the global chiropractic community?
RB: Never forget our history and the sacrifices made to establish this profession. While honoring our past, we must look ahead and embrace the opportunities before us. The best is yet to come; let’s seize it together.
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This interview has been transcribed and edited to enhance readability.
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