Commissioner for Crisis Management, Janez Lenarčič, on behalf of the European Commission, has detailed the EU's strategy to strengthen strategic autonomy in health crisis preparedness, responding to a parliamentary question from MEP Elena Nevado del Campo (PPE). The answer, given on 15 June 2026, outlines a multi-pronged approach to reduce dependence on third countries for critical medical products, impacting EU manufacturers, national health authorities, and patients.
The question, submitted on 27 March 2026, raised concerns about EU dependence on external suppliers for essential medical products such as gloves, and asked about measures to ensure manufacturing capacity and strategic reserves. In her answer, Lahbib highlighted the role of the Health Emergency Preparedness and Response Authority (DG HERA), established in 2021, which supports vaccine development, reserves production capacity, and builds critical stocks with national authorities. She noted that in 2025, the Commission adopted a new medical countermeasures strategy, which includes key initiatives for the future.
The answer contains concrete proposals tied to the next Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF). The Commission proposed continued funding through the health and biotech window of Horizon Europe and the European Competitiveness Fund for developing new countermeasures and resilient supply chains. Additionally, a new instrument for the Union Civil Protection Mechanism and Union Support for Health Emergency Preparedness and Response has been proposed to support operational activities like early warning systems, stockpiling, and direct procurement of countermeasures in emergencies.
Lahbib also referenced the new Pharmaceutical Regulation and the proposed Critical Medicines Act, which aim to identify and address vulnerabilities in the supply chain of critical medicines. The policy orientation is towards strengthening EU strategic autonomy through a combination of R&D funding, operational preparedness, and regulatory measures. Institutional follow-up is expected as the MFF negotiations progress, with the Commission signaling continued support for health preparedness through these instruments.