Cross-party support for German Presidency priorities

In the European Parliament, the Members voted a resolution concerning the future of European health policy. Amongst others, an important point here is the strengthening of pharmaceutical production in Europe. In a controversial vote, MEPs also adopted an amendment of the EPP on the importance of intellectual property. "Greens and Social Democrats had initially opposed the wording. I am glad that it was adopted, because we need incentives for research and innovation especially in the current situation. Companies that are not prepared to share their knowledge and produce vaccines or medicines will have to expect compulsory licences. However, this should not fundamentally call into question the need for patents. Without patents, we will not get the breakthrough we need. Neither for treatments and vaccines for Covid-19, nor for other serious health problems”, said Dr Peter Liese, MEP and health spokesperson of the largest political group in the European Parliament (EPP, Christian Democrats).

By a large majority, MEPs also supported the other priorities of the German Presidency, namely digital health, strengthening international cooperation (full backing for the WHO) and expanding the European Centre for Disease Control (ECDC). "I am firmly convinced that, on the basis of this resolution, we, together with the Commission and the Council under the German Presidency, will achieve a great deal in the coming months to improve the health protection of all citizens in Europe. The old discussion that health is a purely national concern has finally been overcome. This is also shown in the statements on this matter by the German Health Minister Jens Spahn and Health Commissioner Stella Kyriakides", concluded Liese.