Consultation now open: ECO Green Paper on Optimising EU Investment in Cancer Research

 

We are pleased to launch a public consultation on Optimising EU Investment in Cancer Research: A Strategic Framework for Better Impact. The European Cancer Organisation’s Research Policy Network, chaired by Professor Christine Chomienne, invites stakeholders across research, care, industry, civil society, and patient advocacy to help shape a stronger, more coherent and impactful European approach to cancer research.

Your feedback on our Green Paper will inform a subsequent White Paper and associated discussions at the European Cancer Summit, 19–20 November in Brussels.

We kindly invite your input by the end of day Friday 24 September (World Cancer Research Day).

You can find our Green Paper here.

Purpose of the Green Paper

The Green Paper sets out ideas to improve how EU-supported cancer research is planned, governed, funded, and translated into better outcomes for patients and society. It builds on the momentum of Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan and the EU Cancer Mission and invites debate on optimising opportunities for the next EU multiannual financial framework (2028–2035).

The Green Paper at a glance

• Context and intent – why EU cancer research is at an inflection point, and how consultation responses will feed a White Paper for the European Cancer Summit.
• About the ECO Research Policy Network – who we are and why we are convening this debate.
• Where we have come from – a concise history of EU involvement in cancer research, from early cross-border trials to today’s Mission-driven era.
• 2019–2025: a new era – what Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan and the EU Cancer Mission have enabled (platforms, networks, data, screening, digital cancer care).
• A world in flux – external pressures (geopolitics, economy, workforce, regulation) and what they mean for European competitiveness and security in research.
• SWOT analysis of cancer research in Europe (2025) – scale and infrastructures; continuity and accountability gaps; opportunities to streamline and focus; risks of falling behind.
• International comparators – lessons from national cancer institutes and coordinating models abroad.
• A European Cancer Institute? – options (virtual and/or physical), potential remit, and how such a vehicle could strengthen strategy, sustainability, and equity.

How to respond

Responses are welcome in any format.

Respondents are invited to use the form below which includes guiding questions.

Should you wish to include an attachment to support your response, please feel free to email it to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

 

 Timeline and next steps

• Consultation deadline: Friday 24 September 2025 (World Cancer Research Day).

• White Paper development: based on consultation responses.

• Public discussion: at the European Cancer Summit, 19–20 November, Brussels.

Questions or further information

For any further information or queries about this consultation, please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Thank you in advance for your time and expertise in helping shape a high-impact future for European cancer research.