From New EU Institutions to the G7 Health, the Citizens' Perspective for Promoting Vaccination: 10 Policy Recommendations

Quaggia D, Votta M, Christodoulou A, A. Buttigieg G and Struss M

Published on: 2025-10-28

Abstract

Vaccinations are not limited to children and teenagers, as recently emphasized in the Council Conclusions on Vaccination. With the European Union's population steadily aging, it is increasingly important to prioritize adult vaccination alongside pediatric immunization. Vaccination beyond childhood provides significant individual, community, and socio-economic benefits.

Despite these advantages, immunization programs often fall short of delivering vaccines to those most at risk of vaccine-preventable diseases. To address this gap, 35 Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and Patients’ Advocacy Groups (PAGs) from 16 Member States-united in their commitment to protecting the health rights of European citizens-have presented 10 Policy Recommendations for Promoting Vaccination to the new EU institutions.

In particular, the European Commission and Parliament are encouraged to make tangible progress in adult immunization policies by considering these recommendations and engaging with the legitimate demands of so-called intermediated bodies of society, such as CSOs and PAGs. These groups should play an increasingly formal role in supporting public policies, especially those addressing citizens' health.

This principle was recently reaffirmed globally during the G7 Health Ministers' Meeting held in Ancona (Italy) on October 10-11, 2024, under the Italian Presidency. The meeting emphasized the vital role of vaccination as a key preventive measure, highlighting the significance of routine immunization programs and targeted campaigns. It also stressed the need to enhance public awareness by sharing evidence-based information through initiatives designed to empower citizens and improve health literacy in areas such as prevention, research, and care.

These priorities should also guide the new EU institutions, serving as a foundational step toward enhancing the protection of patients' rights across Europe.