17 November 2026 | 12:30–14:00 CET | Hybrid, Brussels

Organised by Rapporteur and sponsored by EFPIA, this event will explore how Europe can strengthen its life sciences competitiveness and improve patient access to innovative medicines.

Two panel discussions will examine the EU Biotech Act’s potential to attract investment, support innovation and accelerate clinical research, alongside practical approaches to overcoming barriers to timely and equitable access to medicines. Topics will include national assessment and reimbursement processes, sustainable funding and stronger patient involvement in access decisions.

Programme:

Panel 1: The EU Biotech Act – Europe’s opportunity to reclaim innovation leadership

Europe’s life sciences sector remains a major scientific strength, yet growing competition from the United States and Asia is challenging its ability to attract research and investment. Regulatory complexity and fragmented clinical trial approval processes all shape Europe’s attractiveness as a destination for innovation. Against this backdrop, how can the forthcoming EU Biotech Act help Europe regain its competitive edge? This panel will explore how the Act could strengthen investment conditions, accelerate clinical research and support the development of breakthrough medicines while maintaining high standards of safety and quality.

Questions to be addressed:

• Can the Biotech Act provide the regulatory certainty and investment signals needed to strengthen Europe's life sciences competitiveness?
• How can the EU improve the speed and attractiveness of clinical trials while maintaining trust and high regulatory standards?
• What would success look like for the Biotech Act five years after its implementation?

Speakers:

• Sascha Berger, Founder & Managing Partner, BergerInvest

 Panel 2: From innovation to patients – Accelerating access to medicines in Europe

Scientific advances are opening new possibilities for treatment, yet patients across Europe continue to face significant differences in whether—and how quickly—they can benefit. National assessment and reimbursement processes, funding decisions and health system readiness all shape access to innovative medicines. Against a backdrop of constrained public finances and growing global competition, how can Europe translate medical progress into timely and equitable access? This panel will explore how policymakers, payers, patients and industry can address persistent barriers while balancing affordability, long-term value and incentives for future innovation.

Questions to be addressed:

• What are the main barriers delaying access to innovative medicines, and which national reforms could make the greatest difference for patients across Europe?
• How can healthcare budgets better reflect the long-term benefits of innovative medicines for patients, health systems and the economy, while managing immediate financial pressures
• Could earlier access following regulatory approval, while national assessment and pricing processes are completed, offer a workable way forward? What safeguards and funding arrangements would be needed?
• How can patients play a stronger role in shaping access decisions, and what commitments should governments, payers and industry make to deliver measurable improvements?

Speakers:

• Níkos Papandréou MEP, Member, SANT Committee, European Parliament
• Aurelijus Veryga MEP, Substitute, SANT Committee, European Parliament
• Nathalie Moll, Director General, EFPIA

Register here.