Securing health in Europe and beyond is becoming a greater task for the European Union and its member states. Internal challenges like the long-lasting economic crisis in many EU (European Union) member states – especially in Mediterranean countries – external health challenges like the West African Ebola Outbreak, and global health challenges such as the rising threat of Antimicrobial Resistance have a great impact on health systems within the EU.
In addition to these, the high number of refugees currently arriving in Europe is creating great healthcare challenges for national governments. Apart from the immediate medical needs, mid- and long-term programs – especially in the field of mental health – and an on-going migration process will require strong and adaptable national health systems.
European Health policy makers are now confronted with an unprecedented crisis situation, clearly showing the global interdependence in the health security sector.
The EU is working closely with its member states and many international actors to protect health worldwide. The European Commission published their “Council conclusions on the EU role in Global Health” in 2010, highlighting its global health activities, and is taking part in the US-led Global Health Security Agenda. In addition, the EU also is aiming to build up a health-in-all-policies model as part of an overarching Europe 2020 strategy developing the EU into a sustainable and inclusive economy promoting growth for all. Building on these instruments, the EU Delegation in Geneva works closely with Geneva-based health organisations, in particular WHO and the Global Fund – where the EU also plays an oversight role through its representation in the Board. The Health in All Policies framework also calls for coherence between activities under different EU policies that take place in Geneva, in particular in the fields of trade and intellectual property, migration, security, employment, and research.
But Global Health experts argue that despite all these EC activities, its leadership could be more determined, visible and stronger, especially in the areas of social protection, universal healthcare, and access to health.
The Global Health Programme at the Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies has facilitated two of the main workshops at the 18th European Health Forum in Bad Hofgastein, Austria, from 30th September – 2nd October 2015, focusing on European and Global Health Security issues. Summarizing the discussions Professor Ilona Kickbusch, Director of the GHP, stated: “The health of European citizens can only be secured with the active involvement of policy makers in the European Union. The spirit of solidarity apparent throughout Europe after the second world war now needs to be shown towards those from war-torn countries who come to us seeking refuge.“
“Global Health is local” and the current refugee crisis shows this very clearly. The EU and its member states need to be prepared to respond to many global health crises in the future, policy mechanisms at all levels need to be adapted, and healthcare systems better prepared as “the crisis will become the new normal”. In addition, the EU needs to emphasize its responsibility for and strengthen its leadership role in the field of Global Health.
Written by Mathias Bonk for the GHP Newsletter
Mathias Bonk, Independent Global Health Consultant and Journalist
Founder, Think Global Health