Representatives of over 70 Member States attended the first WHO Congress on Traditional Medicine held on 7–9 November 2008 in Beijing, China. Satellite symposia were held to discuss related technical topics. Presentations were given by representatives of organizations such as the World Self-Medication Industry (WSMI), the World Federation of Acupuncture-Moxibustion Societies (WFAS), the International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP), and the World Federation of Chiropractic (WFC). Almost 1500 people were present at the events. Highlights of the Congress included adoption of the Beijing Declaration promoting the safe and effective use of traditional medicine and calling on WHO Member States and other stakeholders to take steps to integrate traditional medicine, complementary and alternative medicines (TM/CAM) into national health systems. (AU)