The global pharmaceutical industry is fundamentally unfair. Despite significant public funding contributions, millions worldwide are denied access to essential medicines, vaccines, and health technologies. The industry remains dominated by private corporations, often prioritising profit over public health, resulting in exorbitant prices, shortages, and inequitable access. 

In response to this persistent injustice, a diverse group of civil society organisations, social movements, and networks decided to take action. We have launched the Public Pharma for Europe (PPfE) Coalition.

We aim to catalyse a shift in how pharmaceuticals are developed, governed, and produced by advocating for stronger public leadership and responsibility. Through enhanced public oversight, governments can better meet public health needs and address the longstanding structural problems exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. 

We are joined in this coalition by Abundance (United Kingdom), BUKO Pharma-Kampagne (Germany), Health Action International (HAI) (Netherlands), Medico International (Germany), Medics for the People (MPLP/GVHV) (Belgium), Organisation for Workers' Initiative and Democratisation (BRID) (Croatia), People's Health Movement (PHM) Europe, People's Medicines Alliance (PMA) (International), Pharmaceutical Accountability Foundation (Netherlands), Pharma für Alle (Switzerland), Salud por Derecho (Spain), and Viva Salud (Belgium). 

Through this coalition, we aim to challenge Big Pharma's dominance and ensure that health technologies are accessible and affordable for all, not just those in wealthy countries. 

For more information about the Public Pharma for Europe Coalition, visit https://publicpharmaforeurope.org.

The complete press release is also available here.