Letter from the EU4Health Civil Society Alliance to President Ursula von der Leyen

The EU4Health Civil Society Alliance, representing a coalition of over 30 health organisations—including professionals, patients, citizens, and public health advocates—has submitted a letter to President Ursula von der Leyen. This correspondence seeks to address our collective concerns regarding the upcoming nomination for the next Commissioner for Health.

In our electoral manifesto, we have emphasised the need to prioritise health as a fundamental aspect of the new European Commission and European Parliament mandates. To ensure that health receives the attention it warrants, it is essential that the nominated Commissioner possesses a relevant and appropriate background that aligns with the complexities of this crucial area.

Highlights of Our Letter:

• EU Health Union Enhancement: The COVID-19 pandemic has demonstrated the urgent need for a strong EU Health Union, built on solidarity and effective coordination among member states.
• Importance of Community Engagement: The World Health Organisation (WHO) has highlighted community involvement as a key component of successful public health responses, particularly during health emergencies.
• Addressing Multiple Health Threats: The European Union is currently facing a myriad of health challenges, including climate change, a rising prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), and disparities in health and well-being.
• Sustainable Funding for Health Initiatives: Recent cuts to the EU4Health budget signal a troubling trend in the deprioritisation of health, which comes at a time when robust investment in resilient healthcare systems is essential.

We request assurance that the forthcoming Commissioner for Health will be fully dedicated to promoting an ambitious health agenda at the EU level, continuing the progress made in previous mandates, and collaborating effectively with civil society organisations.