Post by Merck Healthcare

Fertility is more than a healthcare issue - it is a societal issue that affects individuals, families, workplaces, and economies. Our Family Forward initiative is driven by the belief that everyone should feel supported in their family-building journey. Workplaces play a critical role in helping people navigate fertility challenges and make informed decisions about their future. We were delighted to sponsor an Economist Enterprise roundtable on the sidelines of European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE) 2026 Congress, bringing together stakeholders from healthcare, patient advocacy, business, and policy to discuss what it will take to build workplaces that better reflect today's realities and support people throughout their fertility journeys. Supporting people on their fertility journeys requires a shared commitment to improving awareness, access, and support—and collaboration across sectors is essential to driving meaningful change. Thank you to Economist Enterprise for helping drive this important conversation. Together, we can help create a future where people feel empowered and supported to build the families they envision. #ESHRE2026 #AsOneForPatients #FutureOfWork Alexander Steinbach Doina Ionescu