Investing in health must be part of Europe’s competitive edge

The proposal for the European Union's next long-term budget, the Multi-Annual Financial Framework (MFF) for 2028-2034, is due to be published in July and is expected to prioritise European competitiveness.

This follows Mario Draghi’s 2024 influential report, which mentioned health only in terms of the pharmaceutical industry and the opportunities arising from sharing health data across borders.

Indeed, research and innovation is vital. There are dramatic changes in other countries in governmental attitudes towards universities, research, vaccination and evidence-based measures in general. There is an urgent need for Europe to step up and take a leading role in research in general, and medical research specifically.

However, we must also remember that a healthy population is the backbone for economic productivity. Incorporating health into the EU's competitiveness agenda is not merely a social imperative but a strategic economic move. A healthier population can drive innovation, workforce participation, and reduces long-term healthcare costs.  This includes investment in the health workforce.

Ultimately, investing in health is not a cost, but a long-term investment in the EU’s future. A healthier Europe is a stronger, more united Europe. By making health a central pillar of its next budget, the EU can lead by example in promoting equity, resilience, and shared prosperity.