Universal access to healthcare

9.9.2014

Question for written answer E-006728-14
to the Commission
Rule 130
Hugues Bayet (S&D)

Over the last few weeks, the Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights has repeatedly drawn attention to the threat hanging over universal access to healthcare in several EU Member States as a result of austerity measures that were proposed by the EU.

However, the right to health is guaranteed by a number of international and European human rights instruments.

The Commissioner for Human Rights draws particular attention to the situation in Spain and Greece.

1. Is the Commission aware of the problems outlined by the Commissioner for Human Rights?

2. What view does the Commission take of this difficult situation, which affects the lives of many people?

3. What is its view of universal access to healthcare?