Larnaka Call
Every seven years, the EU sets its long-term budget. But this is not only about financing. It’s about political priorities.
In recent years, the EU has taken bold steps to strengthen cancer control through Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan and the EU Mission on Cancer. These initiatives have brought real, tangible benefits to millions of Europeans by:
- Improving cancer prevention legislation and propelling progress towards the elimination of HPV-related cancers
- Supporting countries to expand and enhance cancer screening programmes
- Providing new opportunities for cooperation, such as the EU Network of Comprehensive Cancer Centres and Cancer Image Europe
- Creating expert-led pan-European training programmes for cancer professionals
- Designing new tools to support cancer survivors and fresh research collaborations in areas of high need.
The European Commission’s new proposals for the 2028-2034 Multiannual Financial Framework show a clear focus on current geopolitical realities: security and competitiveness. But what about ambitious social initiatives that save lives, prevent disease, enable better treatments, and improve quality of life for millions of Europeans? What about fighting cancer?
The next months are critically important. We must raise our voices to ensure cancer control remains a top priority in Europe’s next budget.
On 1 January, Cyprus will become the next president of the EU Council. Fittingly, in Larnaka, Cyprus, the ‘Larnaka Call’ was recently launched. Supported by a cross-party group of European and national policymakers, healthcare professionals, cancer centres, and patient organisations, the Larnaka Call urges EU leaders to keep cancer high on the political agenda during the upcoming Cyprus presidency.
Together, we have much to do. But as a first step today, we urge you to sign the Larnaka Call and express your unwavering support for better cancer control!
