The European Federation for Tall People

 Being different is never easy, but try being 2.21m (7ft 4in) tall likeDutch native Rob Bruintjes, who once held the record for being the tallest man in Holland
“Tall people face a lot of difficulties in everyday things. In Holland, a few clubs were formed where we could meet and discuss some of our problems such as not being able to find clothes and difficulties when travelling,” Bruintjes, 56, said in an interview. Some of these associations were more social-based for people to meet each other but they were not practical for finding solutions for important problems, he added. “Conferences were held every year but little was being done. So eventually, the European Federation for Tall People (EFTP) was formed in 1995 to act as the spokesperson for tall people in Europe,” he said. The federation conducted research into improving the environment for tall people and initiated discussions with politicians and corporate companies into ways of meeting their needs. Twelve years after its formation and with 1,200 registered members all over Europe, Bruintjes, who is currently the federation chairman, said things have improved much. “With the development of the Internet, it’s now not so difficult to find shoes and clothes. Shops have also sprung up and tall people are now visiting Holland to shop for things,” he said.  “It’s very important to have a channel where people can share their problems and solutions,” he said.