As CEOs of global pharmaceutical companies, we regularly make decisions on where to locate research, development and manufacturing. These decisions are based on a range of factors that in combination, afford us the best chance of discovering, developing and delivering new medicines that can transform patients’ lives.
The Covid-19 pandemic underscored, perhaps like never before, that our health and economic growth are inextricably linked . With over 9,000 medicines and vaccines in development, contributing €311 billion to the EU economy and supporting 2.3 million jobs in the EU, our sector is in a unique position to help Europeans live longer and feel better while driving EU growth and resilience.
The Covid-19 pandemic underscored, perhaps like never before, that our health and economic growth are inextricably linked
Europe has great potential, a highly skilled workforce, cutting-edge science and world-renowned academic institutions. Our companies have a strong footprint in Europe – and we are committed to working with the EU and its member states to address the issues that are standing in their way becoming a world leader in medical innovation.
1. It starts with leadership and accountability.
We were encouraged by President Ursula von der Leyen’s inclusion of a life sciences strategy for Europe in the political guidelines for the next mandate of the European Commission and its subsequent inclusion in the mission letters for commissioners-designates.
Responsibility for policies that affect our sector sit across multiple commission directorates. This can lead to a fragmented legislative environment where contradictory and incoherent policies have real-life consequences for life sciences companies operating in Europe.
