PAREA welcomes the
adoption of the Warsaw Declaration on March 11, 2025,
endorsed by all 27 EU Member States under the Polish Presidency. This declaration emphasises the need for independent and robust financing for scientific research and innovation to address Europe's pressing challenges.
We particularly support the recommendation that the “future framework programme needs to offer an attractive frame for collaborative research, foster creation of new transnational R&I cooperation networks … thus strengthening the European Research Area”. This approach is crucial for advancing innovative mental health treatments, which require interdisciplinary cooperation to develop new therapeutic solutions for conditions such as depression, PTSD, substance use disorders, and generalised anxiety disorder.
Prioritisation of novel brain health approaches
Building upon existing initiatives like the
European Partnership for Brain Health to structure and boost neuroscience R&I, we advocate for the inclusion and prioritisation of
novel brain health therapeutic approaches, including those derived from
psychedelic research. These emerging treatments have demonstrated significant potential in addressing complex mental health conditions and should be incorporated into a broader, evidence-based strategy for enhancing brain health. With over
100 psychedelic-based treatments currently in various phases of clinical trials, the EU has a unique opportunity to support and streamline psychedelic science that could lead to groundbreaking advancements in brain health care.
We call for an EU Mental Health Hub and Mission for Mental Health
To translate this vision into action, PAREA reiterates its call for an EU Mental Health Hub - a dedicated R&I platform that can bridge gaps between disciplines, countries, and stakeholders. Furthermore, we urge the European Commission to establish a dedicated EU Mission for Mental Health, akin to the Cancer Mission, to coordinate large-scale investment and drive forward mental health R&I in a comprehensive and strategic manner.
Investing in coordinated, large-scale mental health research will not only improve patient outcomes but also strengthen Europe’s position as a leader in medical innovation. By embracing this vision, the EU can fulfil its commitment to addressing unmet medical needs and fostering a truly inclusive and impactful research ecosystem.
