Investing in health equity through the EU budget 2028–2034 – Input for the European Competitiveness Fund
Contribution to the European Commission’s public consultation on EU’s next long-term budget (MFF)
Especially in reference to the Proposal for a Regulation establishing the European Competitiveness Fund (ECF) for 2028–2034
The European Commission is preparing for the next multiannual financial framework (MFF), the EU's long-term budget, which will start in 2028. It has invited input via a series of consultation responses.
With this response, EuroHealthNet responded to the new European Competitiveness Fund (ECF). The ECF is a new part of the Multiannual Financial Framework package, aiming to consolidate 14 individual funding instruments from the current MFF in one framework to foster European competitiveness in technologies and strategic sectors critical to the EU competitiveness
EuroHealthNet responds
EuroHealthNet submitted a response with a neutral, precautionary and conditional stance on the proposed European Competitiveness Fund. Its position is that the ECF can add value only if public-interest safeguards are hard-wired from the basic act through work programmes.
Health is a public good and fundamental right: an essential condition for resilience, preparedness and sustainable productivity, rather than a commodity or merely a security lever. EuroHealthNet argues that any claim that the ECF strengthens competitiveness should be evidenced through improvements in health, equity and wellbeing, not just industrial outputs.
EuroHealthNet's position is that the ECF can add value only if public-interest safeguards are hard-wired from the basic act through work programmes.
Further details, including suggested legal hooks, performance and participation frameworks, and indicative investment menus, are set out in our submission document. Our support remains cautious and contingent on the incorporation of these safeguards.
