The World Gastroenterology Organisation (WGO; OMGE) is a federation of more than 100 national gastroenterology societies and four regional gastroenterology associations representing 50,000 individuals. This organization aims to promote knowledge of the global prevalence of digestive diseases among health professionals and the general public and to promote high-quality, accessible and independent health education and training programs, especially in emerging societies. The educational initiatives of the WGO include 15 Training Centers; Train the Trainers Workshops; an Outreach Program that facilitates the supply of equipment and materials; World Digestive Health Day; Global Guidelines with Cascade methodology, which is unique among guidelines; and the World Congress of Gastroenterology. The WGO Foundation is a philanthropic body dedicated to raising the funds required to support the ongoing WGO education initiatives and activities. (C) 2012 Elsevier Espana, S.L. and AEEH y AEG. All rights reserved.