HERA: Europe's response to health emergencies
A Step Forward in the European Union for Health Emergency Preparedness and Response
The Creation and Importance of HERA
With the establishment of the Health Emergency Preparedness and Response Authority (HERA), the European Union has shown a determined commitment to strengthening its capacity for responding to health emergencies. This initiative, launched by the President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen in her State of the Union address, represents a crucial chapter in the realization of the European Health Union. HERA arises from the recognition that, in an era marked by frequent health emergencies, a coordinated and timely European-level response is essential to protect public health. The creation of this authority is based on the experience gained during the COVID-19 pandemic, where the need for a more structured and proactive approach to managing health crises became evident.
The Role and Functions of HERA
HERA is designed to enhance the coordination of health security within the European Union, responding promptly to future health threats. The organization of the authority is structured to operate in two distinct phases: one of preparation and the other of crisis. In the preparation phase, HERA will focus on the identification and investment in the development, production, and stockpiling of essential medicines. It will also engage in training national experts to better address health emergencies with confidence and expertise. In the event of a health emergency at the EU level, HERA will transition to the ‘crisis’ mode, utilizing all its decision-making power to implement emergency measures and anticipate the development of critical situations. This phase will ensure that key medical countermeasures are distributed rapidly and effectively, following a systematic procedure adapted to the specific circumstances of the moment.
Resources, Collaborations, and HERA’s Global Approach
With a substantial budget, HERA works closely with existing entities such as the ECDC (European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control) and the EMA (European Medicines Agency), as well as with Member States, industry, civil society, and academia. This collaborative network represents a joint effort to ensure a common approach to preparedness within Europe. Furthermore, HERA also collaborates closely with international partners to strengthen global preparedness and response, ensuring that countries worldwide are capable of producing vaccines, medicines, and medical supplies in times of need.
Future Steps and Implementation of HERA
HERA became operational in 2022. Its team is working diligently to ensure that the authority can fulfill its crucial role in protecting the European Union from future health crises. The full implementation of HERA represents a significant milestone in how Europe addresses health emergencies, providing a structured and resilient framework for managing future crises.
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