Support includes medical evacuations, mental health services, and integration into EU health programs
In a video message addressed to the Ukrainian Ministry of Health Conference, European Commissioner for Health and Food Safety, Stella Kyriakides, underscored the European Union’s steadfast commitment to support Ukraine “in all respects, and for as long as it takes.” Joined by Ukraine’s Minister of Health, Viktor Liashko, Commissioner Kyriakides highlighted the extensive assistance the EU is providing to bolster Ukraine’s healthcare sector amid ongoing challenges.
Immediate Medical Support and Evacuations
Commissioner Kyriakides announced that, to date, more than 3,500 Ukrainian patients have been transferred to hospitals across the EU and the European Economic Area (EEA) through the EU Civil Protection Mechanism. This initiative aims to alleviate the burden on Ukraine‘s healthcare facilities and ensure that patients receive the necessary medical care. “Our support to Ukraine regarding the healthcare sector includes immediate needs like medical evacuation,” she stated.
Enhancing Mental Health and Psychosocial Services
Recognizing the profound psychological impact of the conflict, the Commissioner emphasized the importance of mental health support. The EU has provided financial assistance to the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies to aid individuals who have fled Ukraine or have been internally displaced. Efforts are also underway to strengthen access to mental health services for children, one of the most vulnerable groups affected by the crisis. “We are helping Ukraine to strengthen access to mental health services for children,” Kyriakides noted.
Rehabilitation Programs and EU Health Integration
The European Union is assisting Ukraine in improving rehabilitation services for wounded civilians and veterans. Ukraine’s inclusion in the EU4Health funding program has opened numerous opportunities for collaboration in the health sector. In June of the previous year, the EU concluded further arrangements for deeper cooperation with the Ministry of Health of Ukraine. “Ukraine’s work with our European Reference Networks enabled additional financial support for the Ukrainian Hub for Rare Diseases at the Children’s Hospital in Kyiv,” the Commissioner highlighted.
Strengthening Emergency Preparedness and Response
Commissioner Kyriakides praised Ukraine’s participation in the board of the Health Emergency Preparedness and Response Authority (HERA), emphasizing the importance of joint efforts in health emergency preparedness. In collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Office for Europe, a project has been launched to enhance Ukraine’s capacity to address chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) threats. “Together with WHO Europe, we have launched a project to build capacity in Ukraine to address CBRN threats—an area where we must continue to work and prepare together,” she asserted.
Pathway Towards EU Integration
Affirming the European Union’s support for Ukraine’s future within the EU, Commissioner Kyriakides stressed the ongoing efforts to assist Ukrainian authorities in meeting accession requirements. “Ukraine’s alignment with EU standards will improve economic resilience, create new supply chains, and strengthen sectors such as pharmaceuticals,” she stated. The Commissioner underscored that the negotiations will require leadership, determination, and focus, with successful reforms being key to progress. “Getting reforms right will be key. Our support for Ukraine in this process is a given,” she added.
Solidarity and Shared Future
Concluding her message, Commissioner Kyriakides reaffirmed the EU’s profound commitment to supporting Ukraine. “We stand together in your fight for freedom and democracy, and we will work together towards a future of stability, resilience, and partnership,” she declared. She extended her wishes for a fruitful conference discussing the integration of Ukrainian and EU healthcare systems. “I wish you a fruitful day discussing the integration of Ukrainian and EU healthcare,” she said.
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First published in this link of The European Times.
