Speaking on behalf of the European Public Health Alliance (EPHA), Lara Garrido-Herrero, General Secretary, praised the EU for its health-related achievements but warns that more needs to be done:
“Life expectancy has increased and certain diseases have been eradicated or controlled. However fifty years on, Europe is facing new challenges that require the full attention of European leaders: There can be up to 15 years difference between life expectancy for those in the lower socio-economic group compared to those in the highest, and this must be addressed, if we want the EU to provide leadership on global issues”.
She concludes that “health is a fundamental human right that European citizens want to see secured. The Eurobarometer for 2006 saw respect for human life and human rights in the top three priorities of European citizens.”
For more information and background information see EPHA’s article on The EU is 50 years-old: Celebrating the common values of the EU
