Sixty Years of a Regional Scientific Gathering Exploring the Interplay Between Neurological and Psychiatric Frontiers

Abstract

In 2010, a major academic milestone was celebrated: 50 years since the inception of a conference series initiated through cooperation between neuropsychiatric institutions in Zagreb and Graz. This initiative, born during a time when neurology and psychiatry were still intertwined, gradually evolved alongside the disciplines themselves. The gatherings that began in a divided world politically and ideologically became a rare opportunity for East-West scientific dialogue, thanks to their neutral venue in former Yugoslavia.

Boško Barać, one of the contributors to this account, became involved in these symposia in the 1960s and later took a central role in their organization following the unexpected death of the original Secretary General, Gerald Grinschgl. Over the next 23 years, Barać led the scientific committee, fostering ties with his Austrian counterpart, Helmut Lechner, and further shaping the program. In 2007, he passed the leadership to Vida Demarin.

The symposia evolved from strictly neuropsychiatric events into forums that welcomed contributions from a wide range of related fields, both medical and non-medical. These cross-disciplinary discussions enriched the events, reinforcing their reputation not just as scientific conferences, but as platforms for broader humanistic reflection. Participants came from across Europe and beyond, fostering understanding between different traditions and schools of thought.

These meetings became known informally as the “Pula School,” a label that reflected their dual focus on scientific excellence and ethical responsibility. Topics often extended into emerging areas at the intersection of disciplines, and speakers addressed not only the function and dysfunction of the brain, but also questions concerning human behavior, cognition, and social responsibility.

Importantly, these conferences also contributed to broader cultural and political dialogue. Held during an era of political rigidity, they served as a bridge between communities separated by ideology. The openness and cooperation they promoted helped lay groundwork for a more connected and tolerant European academic environment.

The lasting significance of these meetings lies in their synthesis of knowledge and values. They highlighted how medicine, while rooted in biological sciences, must ultimately serve the human condition. In this spirit, the symposia became more than academic exchanges they were a testament to the power of shared knowledge in fostering peace, understanding, and progress across borders and disciplines.