Europe urgently needs greater investment in scientific progress for child health. In the past, EU research policy and funding placed considerable emphasis on child health. However, in past EU funded research schemes, as well as the current research framework programme proposal (FP10), the word “child” is virtually absent.
A group of European paediatric associations including ESPGHAN joined forces with the aim of strengthening research for child health in Europe by initiating an event at the European Parliament in Brussels, hosted by Tomislav Sokol, Member of the European Parliament (MEP), on June 4, 2026.
The meeting was addressed by high-ranking European politicians and outlined the need for more investment in child health. As a result of the meeting, the socieities have written a White Book outlining the needs, key messages addressed and a call to action moving forward.
The White Book can be found in the link below, and gives the full overview on the discussions of the day, and key topics addressed.
