Building Europe’s future of cancer care, research and education
The First Annual Meeting of the European Network of Comprehensive Cancer Centres (EUnetCCC), held in Paris, marked a major milestone in Europe’s mission to deliver more equitable, high-quality and patient-centred cancer care across all Member States.
Over two days, the event brought together leading policymakers, oncology experts, researchers, healthcare professionals, patient representatives and European institutions to strengthen collaboration, define governance structures, and advance the implementation of a sustainable European Network of Comprehensive Cancer Centres (CCCs), aligned with Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan.
Advancing a shared European vision for cancer care
The meeting opened with high-level discussions on the future of cancer research and care in Europe, focusing on how EU policy can be translated into practical action through the development of certified Comprehensive Cancer Centres.
Speakers from European institutions and national health systems highlighted the strategic role of CCCs in integrating care, research, education and innovation to improve patient outcomes and reduce inequalities.
Key plenary sessions addressed:
- The transition from Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan flagship nº5 to the operationalisation of CCCs across Europe
- The definition of EU CCC standards and certification systems
- Governance frameworks and memberships rules for the permanent European Network
- The strategic importance of CCC networking and cross-border collaboration
Throughout the first day, parallel sessions explored how certification, data sharing, precision diagnosis and early detection programmes can strengthen national cancer systems and accelerate innovation.
Strengthening capacity, sustainability and patient empowerment
The second day focused on building a sustainable and inclusive network that supports all European cancer centres, regardless of their level of development.
Special attention was placed on:
- Capacity-building strategies and tools for aspiring CCCs
- Workforce recruitment and retention in oncology
- Patient empowerment and structured patient involvement
- Organizational models and lessons from CCC pilot centres
- Funding and support opportunities at EU level
- The role of Comprehensive Cancer Care Networks (CCCNs) in reaching patients beyond major hubs
A central moment of the meeting was the official launch of the EUnetCCC White Paper, a strategic document laying the foundations for a long-term European infrastructure for comprehensive cancer care.
A strong political commitment
The closing session featured high-level contributions from Sandra Gallina (DG SANTE, European Commission) and Nicolas Scotté (French National Cancer Institute – INCa), reaffirming Europe’s political commitment to cancer prevention, innovation and equitable access to high-quality oncology services.
The call for unity, solidarity and collaboration across Member States was a strong message throughout the event, reinforcing that excellence in cancer care must become a European standard, not a privilege.
Towards a sustainable European Network of CCCs
The EUnetCCC First Annual Meeting 2025 concluded with a shared commitment to:
- Strengthen cooperation between cancer centres across Europe
- Support countries and institutions in developing and upgrading CCCs
- Promote patient-centred care, prevention and early detection
- Accelerate innovation through data sharing and collaboration
- Ensure long-term sustainability of the European Network of CCCs
This meeting represents a decisive step towards building a stronger, fairer and more connected Europe in the fight against cancer.