Session 18

Equitable access to disruptive technologies in Europe

Resolving the access-innovation-affordability conundrum

Organised by the European Policy Centre, supported by MSD

Health has become increasingly important at the EU level, due to its importance for economic security and its contribution to the EU’s competitiveness and economy, in line with the Draghi report. Meanwhile, life sciences innovations like gene-based therapies, genomic testing, and medical robotics promise better outcomes but remain unevenly accessible across Member States, undermining solidarity. The traditional rhetoric about Member States' competences in healthcare has hindered a more nuanced debate about the EU’s role in funding health innovation in Europe. Despite this, mechanisms such as research & development incentives and funding frameworks, including the Multiannual Financial Framework and the Italian Innovation Fund, could bridge access gaps. A panel of experts will explore balancing access, innovation, and affordability within the European Union’s political context and the European Policy Centre’s recommendations. 

Speakers to be announced