Hungary Prioritizes Health, Demographics, and Pharma Reform During EU Council Presidency

Hungary's EU Council presidency will focus on cardiovascular disease, organ donation, and pharmaceutical reform,alongside demographic challenges and labor shortages.

Hungary has outlined its priorities for its upcoming presidency of the Council of the European Union, highlighting neglected health issues and demographic challenges.

Hungary's EU presidency tackles neglected health issues and promotes workforce solutions.

The six-month presidency, starting July 1, 2024, will focus on areas like:

• Cardiovascular Disease: A leading cause of death in Europe, cardiovascular disease will be a central focus for Hungary. The presidency aims to raise awareness and encourage preventative measures.

• Organ Donation: Hungary seeks to improve organ donation rates across the EU by fostering cooperation among member states.

• Pharmaceutical Reform: Hungary will prioritize progress on new pharmaceutical legislation, aiming to ensure access to affordable medications.

Addressing Demographic Challenges

Hungary acknowledges the EU's aging population and its impact on healthcare sustainability. The presidency plans to address labor shortages, particularly in healthcare, by:

• Workforce Reserves: Engaging untapped labor reserves and increasing employment rates among the inactive population are key strategies.

• Work-Life Balance and Gender Equality: The program emphasizes promoting work-life balance and gender equality to attract and retain workers.

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EU Cooperation in Health

While health is primarily a national responsibility, the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the need for closer EU cooperation. Hungary's presidency aims to build on this momentum for improved public health outcomes.

The Hungarian presidency agenda also includes tackling:

• Rare Diseases: Fostering collaboration in rare disease research and treatment.

• Mental Health: Exploring the link between mental health and emergencies.

• Tobacco and Alcohol Consumption: Following up on delayed EU initiatives aimed at reducing tobacco and alcohol use.

Background Information

• The Council of the European Union is a key decision-making body representing member states' interests.

• Member states hold the rotating presidency for six months.

• Hungary will assume the presidency from Belgium on July 1, 2024.

Hungary's focus on neglected health issues and demographic challenges positions its presidency as an opportunity for significant progress in these crucial areas.

Source: Euronews