Answer given by Mr Várhelyi on behalf of the European Commission
30.1.2026
The Commission’s proposal for the Multiannual Financial Framework 2028-2034 (MFF)[1] aims to enhance the EU's capacity to deliver on core policies such as on health. The set-up provides for flexibility and aims to ensure the EU budget is future-proof, responsive and relevant for its duration.
The proposed European Competitiveness Fund (ECF)[2] includes a dedicated policy window on Health, Agriculture and Bioeconomy with a budget of EUR 20.4 billion. This is complemented by EUR 19.6 billion proposed for collaborative research under Horizon Europe, including for EU missions.
The Commission aims to provide support to promote and protect health across borders, with a focus on communicable and non-communicable diseases and emphasis on cardiovascular diseases, cancer, preventive and mental health.
Such health priorities could be pursued, by carrying out the specific activities listed in Article 37 of the proposed ECF Regulation. Furthermore, Member States could use their National and Regional Partnership Plans (NRPP) to support health system investments and reforms addressing challenges identified under the European Semester and in line with the specific objectives identified in Article 3 of the proposed NRPP Regulation, especially (c)(iv) on facilitating access to services and associated infrastructure, including modernization, digitalization and strengthening the quality and resilience of healthcare systems.
An enhanced performance framework is envisaged to support the delivery of EU policy priorities and increase transparency. A single expenditure and performance monitoring system would apply to all relevant programmes allowing for a comprehensive overview of where EU funds are allocated and what they deliver.