Inside EU Health: ECDC 20th; male contraception gap; and Danish decline in clinical trials

A tale of two coronaviruses

The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) marked its 20th anniversary celebrating two decades of operation. Founded in 2005 after the SARS outbreak, the agency’s role expanded dramatically following COVID-19, strengthening crisis preparedness across the EU.

ECDC Director Dr. Pamela Rendi-Wagner said, “Health security is a cornerstone of Europe’s future,” highlighting how investment in public health builds trust and saves lives. Experts at the event pointed to digital surveillance and AI as key tools for tackling future threats, while warning that adaptability and collaboration will be vital in an uncertain world.

ECDC marks 20 years of operation and looks to future threats

The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control reflects on two decades of crisis response and looks ahead to emerging threats

Vital SignsCatherine Feore

Male contraception gap

Experts and NGOs (DSW and Better Birth Control) are urging Europe to boost investment and regulatory support for male contraceptives, warning that unclear rules and lack of funding are halting innovation. Speaking at a European Parliament meeting hosted by MEP Peter Liese, participants stressed that men are ready to share responsibility for birth control — but have just two options: condoms or a vasectomy.

Global funding for contraceptive innovation fell to €125 million in 2023, with no EU contributions since 2021. The European Medicines Agency (EMA) says they have an open door, but the NGOs say a clearer regulatory pathway and funding is needed.

Breaking down barriers to male contraception: Europe urged to invest in solutions

NGOs and experts warned that a lack of funding and a clear regulatory pathway is stalling innovation in male birth control options

Vital SignsCatherine Feore

Danish downer

Traditionally a leader in clinical trials per capita a new analysis from Lif (Danish Association of the Pharmaceutical Industry) and DANSK BIOTEK shows a 24% drop in the number of companies' clinical trials in 2024 (342), compared to 2023 (450).

“We must of course take stock of this and investigate the reasons for this, because it indicates that there is a need to improve the framework conditions for clinical research in Denmark,” said Jakob Bjerg Larsen, political head of clinical research and pharmaceutical production at Lif. “Clinical research is a cornerstone of our healthcare system, which not only ensures patients access to new, groundbreaking medical treatment, but also promotes innovation and attracts investment to the country.”

Increase in the number of new trials: On the upside there is an increase in the number of newly started trials, and the number of trial subjects is also stable.