Eliminating HPV Across Europe
Sharing Best Practices and Tackling Challenges Together

4 March, 13h00 - 15h00 CET

Brussels

Join a Europe-wide effort to eliminate HPV-related diseases. This high-level debate brings together policymakers, healthcare professionals, and civil society representatives to exchange best practices, address shared challenges, and inspire collaboration towards a future free from HPV-related cancers.

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About the Event

The High-Level Debate on "Eliminating HPV Across Europe: Sharing Best Practices and Addressing Common Challenges". is a pivotal gathering of European policymakers, healthcare professionals, and civil society leaders. Scheduled strategically on March 4, 2025, to coincide with International HPV Awareness Day and leading up to International Women's Day, this event emphasises the urgent need for coordinated action to eliminate HPV-related diseases, with a particular focus on cervical cancer.

Purpose and Significance

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most prevalent viral infection of the reproductive tract and a leading cause of cervical cancer. As countries across Europe implement the WHO Global Strategy for Cervical Cancer Elimination, this debate provides a platform to:

  • Exchange Expertise: Learn from countries with high HPV vaccination rates and successful public health campaigns.
  • Address Challenges: Identify and discuss shared obstacles, including vaccine hesitancy, misinformation, and healthcare disparities.
  • Strengthen Collaboration: Foster cross-border partnerships to amplify the impact of national and EU-wide initiatives.

The discussion will underscore the essential role of prevention, early detection, and vaccination in tackling HPV-related diseases, aligning with Europe's broader cancer elimination goals.

Poland's Contribution

While not yet a leader in HPV elimination, Poland's evolving strategies offer valuable insights, particularly in overcoming vaccine hesitancy, expanding public awareness, and ensuring equitable access to vaccinations. By sharing its experiences and learning from more established programmes, Poland contributes to a unified European approach to achieving HPV elimination.

The event takes place at a critical juncture as new EU institutions, including the European Parliament and a refreshed European Commission, set their agendas following the 2024 elections. With health policy as a cornerstone of EU cooperation, the newly elevated Committee on Public Health (SANT) will play a central role in shaping Europe's response to HPV and broader public health challenges.

This institutional renewal offers an unparalleled opportunity to advocate for:

  • Sustained political and financial commitment to HPV vaccination and screening.
  • Coordinated strategies to combat vaccine disinformation and build public trust.
  • A reinforced focus on cervical cancer elimination as part of Europe's health agenda.

Event Details

When and Where?

  • Date: March 4, 2025
  • Time: 13:00 - 15:00 CET
  • Location: Spinelli Building, European Parliament, Brussels

Format:

  • Expert panel discussions exploring best practices and challenges.
  • Networking opportunities to build collaborations.
  • Q&A

Speakers

Moderator:

  • Chris Burns

Panelists:

  • Adam Jarubas, EPP, Chair of the SANT committee
  • Igor Grzesiak, Deputy President, Institute of Patient Rights and Health Education
  • Matthias Schuppe, Deputy Head of Unit of SANTE B1: Cancer, Health in all policies
  • Prof. Andrzej Nowakowski, Outpatient Clinic for Cervical Cancer Prevention at the Department of Cancer Prevention of the M. Sklodowska-Curie National Cancer Institute - National Research Institute in Warsaw

These distinguished speakers represent a wide range of expertise, from policy-making to on-the-ground public health initiatives. Their diverse perspectives will ensure a comprehensive discussion on HPV elimination strategies.