Kristian Vigenin: Europe must maintain its leadership in advanced therapies

The Bulgarian MEP from the Group of the Progressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats in the European Parliament Kristian Vigenin hosted a specialised discussion on Advanced Therapy Medicinal Products (ATMP) organised jointly with the European Alliance for Transformative Therapies. The event brought together industry, academia, patient organisations, regulators and experts from different Member States in Brussels.

Vigenin highlighted Europe’s important role in the development of advanced therapies, an area that is driving biotechnological innovation. “We need to create a strong, predictable and supportive European framework that encourages scientific breakthroughs, supports manufacturing on the continent and ensures equitable access for patients in all member states,” he said during the discussion.

In his words, it is ATMP therapies, including cellular, gene-medical and tissue-engineered solutions, that have the potential to transform the treatment of rare, inherited and previously incurable diseases. During the event, personal testimonies from patients and professionals were expressed that demonstrated the real impact these therapies have on quality of life and longevity.

Vigenin stressed that Europe has strategic advantages: a globally recognised scientific base, strong public institutions, developed academic potential and a healthcare model based on solidarity. “There is no need to copy American or Asian models. We need to develop our own European capacity – based on quality, ethics, safety and equal access for patients,” he stressed.

The MEP thanked all participants for their expert positions and constructive dialogue. He pointed out that such forums are the basis for the formation of a modern, competitive and socially responsible European policy in the field of biomedical innovation.

The event highlighted the need for a Europe-wide effort to accelerate the development and deployment of advanced therapies and outlined specific challenges and opportunities for the EU to maintain its global leadership.