Building on the foundations established during the first annual meeting, partners reviewed the work carried out over the past year and a half and explored how WP6 activities and expected outcomes connect with other work packages.
Key discussions
A key focus was the identification and prioritisation of health threats. Discussions explored existing assessment methodologies, relevant stakeholders and the challenges of prioritising global health threats. One of the biggest challenges identified is that while threat assessments must anticipate future scenarios, assessment is done on historical data. A dedicated workshop addressed how to move from identified health threats towards a concrete list of medical countermeasures. This work is an important step towards informing decisions on MCM stockpiling and strengthening Europe's preparedness for future health threats.
The meeting also addressed supply chain resilience and the development of an inventory of supply chain instruments. Participants discussed the role of stockpiling in ensuring the availability of medical countermeasures for health emergencies. Medical devices were another topic on the agenda.
Looking ahead, participants worked on two key WP6 deliverables: a preparedness plan for MCM stockpiling (Task 6.3) and a handbook for policymakers (Task 6.4). A dedicated session provided an opportunity to discuss the goals, relevant stakeholders and first outline of these practical resources. These final two tasks of WP6 strongly rely on lessons learned from across the Joint Action Stockpile.
Looking ahead
The annual meeting provided a valuable opportunity to review progress, exchange expertise and strengthen collaboration between WP6 partners. Discussions also highlighted the importance of aligning WP6 activities with the work of other work packages to support a coordinated approach across JA Stockpile.
A big thank you to all participants, speakers and partners for their valuable contributions, constructive discussions and continued commitment.
Together, JA Stockpile partners are taking steps towards a more coordinated, resilient and future-proof approach to medical countermeasure stockpiling in Europe.
