The European Commission presented a Communication for the proposed launch of a European bio-defence preparedness programme called “HERA Incubator” to address the emerging threat of coronavirus variants. Plans include important new research investments, mobilising an additional €30 million from Horizon 2020 to be complemented by a further €120 million from Horizon Europe. The new programme will provide the means to detect and counter further coronavirus mutations and help ensure access to … [Read more...] about EU to invest €150 million for research to counter coronavirus variants
AstraZeneca to supply 9 million more vaccine doses: EU
AstraZeneca has agreed to supply 9 million additional doses of its coronavirus vaccine to the European Union during the first quarter, the bloc’s executive arm said Sunday. The new target of 40 million doses by the end of March is still only half what the British-Swedish company had originally aimed for, triggering a spat between AstraZeneca and the EU last week. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said after a call with seven vaccine makers Sunday that AstraZeneca will also … [Read more...] about AstraZeneca to supply 9 million more vaccine doses: EU
UNHCR calls for EU to ensure a new chapter for refugee protection
As a new year begins, UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, is calling on Portugal and Slovenia to harness their 2021 European Union (EU) Presidencies and negotiations on the EU Pact on Migration and Asylum and show leadership to better protect refugees in Europe and beyond. UNHCR's 2021 EU Presidency Recommendations propose predictable and principled measures rooted in solidarity for a workable, rights-based and sustainable EU asylum system. They also stress the importance of revitalized … [Read more...] about UNHCR calls for EU to ensure a new chapter for refugee protection
WHO warns of COVID-19 ‘tipping point’ as cases rise across Europe
The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned of a “tipping point” in the fight against COVID-19, amid surging cases in Europe and the fresh challenge of a mutating virus. During a virtual press briefing from Copenhagen, WHO Regional Director for Europe, Dr. Hans Kluge, said: “We were prepared for a challenging start to 2021 and it has been just that." He said: "Although new tools against the disease are now available, including several vaccines, and knowledge about the virus has … [Read more...] about WHO warns of COVID-19 ‘tipping point’ as cases rise across Europe
Creative Europe Programme bags increased Budget for the period 2021-2027
European Union (EU) ministers of culture and the audiovisual sector welcomed the substantial budget increase allocated to the Creative Europe programme for the period 2021-2027, during a meeting in December. The programme will receive a 0.6 billion EUR boost to support to the cultural and creative sector and aims to be more inclusive, focus more on gender equality and provide greater support to the music sector. The Ministers also exchanged ideas on other initiatives to strengthen support to … [Read more...] about Creative Europe Programme bags increased Budget for the period 2021-2027
Team Europe contributes €500 million to COVAX initiative
The European Investment Bank agreed €400 million of financing to support the participation of low and middle-income economies in COVAX Advance Market Commitment (COVAX AMC). This rapidly approved financing, guaranteed by the European Fund for Sustainable Development and alongside €100 million grant support from the European Commission to COVAX AMC, will support access to safe and effective COVID-19 vaccines in 92 low and middle-income countries. This enables COVAX, a multilateral … [Read more...] about Team Europe contributes €500 million to COVAX initiative
EU should make 2021 “Super Year” for achieving Sustainable Development Goals in Europe and globally
The Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN) and the Institute for European Environmental Policy (IEEP) have published the Europe Sustainable Development Report 2020, the second independent quantitative report on the progress of the European Union, its member states, and other European countries towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), agreed by all UN member states in 2015. The Europe Sustainable Development Report 2020 is part of the broader Sustainable Development Report … [Read more...] about EU should make 2021 “Super Year” for achieving Sustainable Development Goals in Europe and globally
Europe needs new strict containment measures against COVID-19: New OECD Report
With the coronavirus (COVID-19) once again spreading rapidly, and the re-introduction of containment measures to flatten the curve of the epidemic, it is crucial for policymakers to plan effective strategies to re-open their economies to avoid further re-confinements. This should include much more effective testing, tracing, and isolation policies that people can easily follow, as well as improved social distancing measures, according to a new OECD report. Health at a Glance: Europe 2020 … [Read more...] about Europe needs new strict containment measures against COVID-19: New OECD Report
IFRC steps up EU’s COVID-19 response to stop the spread of the virus
The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) is urging Governments to strengthen their “test-trace-quarantine” systems to help prevent future surges of COVID-19. This call comes as multiple European countries put in place new restrictions to stop community transmission and to avoid the collapse of health systems. Francesco Rocca, IFRC President, said: “The recent restrictions across Europe signal that more must be done, and we see ourselves as a critical … [Read more...] about IFRC steps up EU’s COVID-19 response to stop the spread of the virus
New World Bank report explores Europe’s digital options for boosting competitiveness
Digital technologies are transforming economic opportunities, a trend being accelerated as businesses and workers respond to the COVID-19 pandemic. The potential to raise productivity and to expand opportunities for firms that are small or in less developed locations is real. But it is not being fully realized according to Europe 4.0: Addressing the Digital Dilemma report. The evidence shows a tension in the region’s presence in the digital space and in building a vibrant digital economy that … [Read more...] about New World Bank report explores Europe’s digital options for boosting competitiveness
