Healthcare as a Pillar of European Security: EJD's Call to Action

Healthcare is not only a public good—it is a strategic necessity.

In the face of converging crises—economic downturns, pandemics, climate change, geopolitical instability, and cross-border migration—Europe’s healthcare systems are under unprecedented strain. The European Junior Doctors stress that resilient healthcare systems are vital not just for public health, but for European security and defense.

Junior doctors and frontline professionals have consistently stepped up during emergencies—from the COVID-19 pandemic to refugee health crises—demonstrating that health systems are the first line of defense in protecting our societies.

EJD Urges Action

To strengthen healthcare's role in securing Europe’s future, EJD calls on EU and national policymakers to:

• Recognize healthcare investment as a strategic priority for European security.
• Increase funding to address critical shortages in the healthcare workforce, medicines supply and  to reinforce healthcare infrastructure.
• Invest in advanced training and crisis preparedness programs, including mental health and resilience training, for all healthcare professionals and administrators.
• Foster integrated cooperation between civilian and military sectors, ensuring a coordinated response in times of emergency.
• Strengthen digital health systems and cybersecurity to protect against cyberattacks and ensure care continuity during catastrophes, conflict and hybrid threats.
• Secure continuity of care for vulnerable groups in crises through robust protocols, medicine access, and remote care solutions.
• Advance in the cross-border healthcare collaboration to build a resilient, adaptive, and fair European Health Union.

A Call for Strategic Investment

Resilient healthcare systems are not a luxury—they are a core element of stability, crisis response, and democratic resilience. Without sustained investment and forward-looking policy, the quality and accessibility of care across Europe will remain at risk.

We urge EU institutions and member states to treat healthcare as more than a social service: it is a cornerstone of social justice, national stability, and collective defense.

Read the full statement: