Im pleased to address the Commissions focus on preparedness, crisis management, and equality. Congratulations on forming a standing public health committee, which emphasizes health as a crucial priority. Recent elections showed health is a major concern for Europeans.
Europe is confronting numerous threats like cyber-attacks, infrastructure sabotage, and pandemics. These complex risks require urgent cross-border and cross-sector actions. No single nation can tackle these alone.
Our Union is more robust now than five years ago. Weve established a strong European Health Union and enhanced our tools. The new Preparedness Union Strategy aims to transform our preparedness mindset, addressing all hazards.
The Strategys initial actions include better risk assessment integration. The Commission will launch a comprehensive risk assessment to ensure effective preparedness, presenting findings to the European Parliament.
Were enhancing critical infrastructure protection through initiatives like the Action Plan on Hospital Cybersecurity and strengthening the Union Civil Protection Mechanism. Our efforts in Ukraine and Gaza demonstrate our capability to deploy medical teams and essential supplies.
HERAs role in health security is vital, as shown in securing pandemic influenza vaccines. A forthcoming Medical Countermeasures Strategy will expedite development and access, supported by joint procurement and stockpiling initiatives.
Collaboration among governments, citizens, businesses, and researchers will bolster innovation and resilience. The new EU Crisis Coordination Hub will enhance Member State support, alongside a reinforced Union Civil Protection Mechanism.
Womens health requires more attention, addressing differences in diagnosis and treatment. The Roadmap for Womens Rights integrates gender perspectives into health policies, aiming for effective care.
The upcoming Gender Equality Strategy 2026–2030 will outline the EUs actions, promoting womens health and rights. Global solidarity and cooperation are essential, as learned from the COVID-19 pandemic.
We will continue to support global health security, reinforcing partnerships and exploring new collaborations. The Pandemic Agreements consensus is a positive step towards a fair and coordinated global pandemic response.
Your support is crucial in implementing our Preparedness Strategy. Together, we can ensure a safer, healthier future for all.