EU Launches “BE READY” to Boost Pandemic Research

The European Commission has launched BE READY, a new European Partnership aimed at improving pandemic research and preparedness. Unveiled on 17 February 2026, the initiative brings together 81 organisations from 27 countries to strengthen Europe’s ability to anticipate, prevent and respond to future health crises. With €120 million in funding from the EU’s Horizon Europe programme, BE READY will support collaborative research focused on understanding emerging pathogens and developing diagnostics, therapies and vaccines. 

The partnership builds on years of investment in health research and aims to improve coordination between national and EU-level institutions. Under BE READY, annual joint transnational calls will encourage cooperation across borders and disciplines, allowing scientists to address pandemic threats more efficiently and effectively. 

Commissioner for Startups, Research and Innovation Ekaterina Zaharieva emphasised the importance of building strong scientific foundations, saying the initiative will reinforce Europe’s leadership in innovation while prioritising citizens’ health. Commissioner for Equality, Preparedness and Crisis Management Hadja Lahbib added that BE READY focuses on real resilience by ensuring quicker access to crucial medical tools when crises hit. 

The first call for research projects is expected to focus on investigating the pandemic potential of emerging pathogens and developing innovative medical countermeasures. This approach aims not only to respond to immediate threats but also to create long-term infrastructure and collaboration frameworks across the EU. 

By coordinating research priorities and funding, BE READY represents a significant step in strengthening Europe’s preparedness landscape and improving health security across member states and beyond. 

Read more: luxembourg.representation.ec.europa.eu/actualites-et-evenements/actualites/commission-launches-new-european-partnership-strengthen-pandemic-research-and-preparedness-2026-02-17_fr?prefLang=en

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