The Journal Pathogens and Global Health has invited
Dr Herta Adam
European Commission, Directorate General for Health and Consumers, Directorate Public Health Acting Head of Unit C3 ‘Health Threats’
to respond to a short set of questions on how priority has been given to the research topics that form the draft EU Horizon 2020 Programme.
Regrettably, Dr Adam declined our invite by stating ‘I regret to inform you that I am not in a position to provide the requested interview’.
Pathogens and Global Health interview-questions:
Q1: Several drafts of the Health 2020 programme have been circulated, have you already agreed a final document?
Q2: What are the major differences from the previous framework programme?
Q3: The programme seems very focused on topics of a European dimension, and disconnects from a Global Health vision. How do you intend to involve partners from outside Europe and from developing countries?
Q4: There is a great emphasis on public health, translation of genomics and IT technology to public health, and little emphasis on topics related to basic research. What’s the reason for this?
Q5: In particular, there seems to be little support for research aimed at studying infectious diseases. Is this not a priority on the global health agenda?
Q6: Europe is facing a serious public health challenge due to the resurgence of vector borne diseases (Dengue in Madeira, West Nile fever in Eastern Europe, Vivax malaria in Greece), will these public health topics be covered in the programme?
Q7: Can you explain the process of selecting the topics included in the H2020 document and how different stakeholders are involved in this process?
Q8: How are taxpayers informed on the process of selection of research priorities?
Q9: Are there opportunities for improvements and changes and what are the mechanisms to advocate the inclusion of additional research priorities?