Bridging the Confidence Gap: Towards A Multistakeholder Alliance to Strengthen Equitable Vaccination in Central and Eastern Europe

Valcea L, Chiorean E and Votta M

Published on: 2025-11-08

Abstract

Vaccine confidence and equitable access remain pressing challenges in Central and Eastern Europe (CEE), where socio-economic disparities, poor health literacy, disinformation, misinformation, and structural barriers continue to impact vaccination uptake. Vaccine hesitancy remains a significant barrier to achieving high vaccination coverage in CEE. The COVID-19 pandemic exposed and amplified deep-rooted mistrust in public institutions, increased susceptibility to misinformation, and widened disparities in vaccine uptake - particularly among vulnerable and marginalised populations. Paediatric vaccination rates in several CEE countries have declined below recommended thresholds, putting communities at risk of preventable disease outbreaks. This paper explores the multifaceted nature of vaccine hesitancy in the region, identifies key barriers, and provides actionable recommendations derived from a regional multistakeholder alliance representing key actors in vaccination policy.