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WONCA Europe

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WONCA Europe's aim is to improve the quality of life of people living in Europe through fostering high standards of care in Family Medicine.

Lobbying Activity

Meeting with Steven Engels (Head of Unit Employment, Social Affairs and Inclusion) and European Union of General Practitioners/ Family Physicians

9 Sept 2025 · UEMO/WONCA Europe initiative to introduce family medicine as a medical specialty under Directive 2005/36/EC

Meeting with Jana Dabbelt (Cabinet of Commissioner Olivér Várhelyi) and European Union of General Practitioners/ Family Physicians

24 Jul 2025 · Update on main challenges faced by European GPs, Hospital Doctors and Junior Doctors

Meeting with András Tivadar Kulja (Member of the European Parliament, Shadow rapporteur)

1 Jul 2025 · Healthcare workforce shortage

Meeting with Veronika Cifrová Ostrihoňová (Member of the European Parliament, Shadow rapporteur)

12 Jun 2025 · the situation of family doctors in the EU

Response to 2040 Climate Target Plan

23 Jun 2023

The EU has been widely recognized for its active role in combating climate change and its pursuit of a sustainable future. However, a critical examination of the EU's climate target for 2040 reveals both positive and concerning aspects. While the EU's commitment to the Paris Agreement and its objective of limiting global warming to below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels is commendable, the specific target set for 2040, a reduction of at least 55% in GHG emissions compared to 1990 levels, raises questions. The accelerated pace of emission reductions undoubtedly demands transformative changes across sectors, including energy, transport, industry, and agriculture. However, the feasibility and practicality of achieving such ambitious goals within the given timeframe remain uncertain. The EU emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive and integrated approach, focusing on energy efficiency, renewable energy sources, and decarbonization of the electricity sector. While these elements are crucial, the EU's strategy lacks clear and concrete plans for implementation. Vague statements about promoting electric vehicles and developing advanced infrastructure without specifying the necessary investments and regulatory measures raise doubts about the effectiveness of the proposed actions. Moreover, the EU's recognition of the role of innovation and technology in achieving climate goals is encouraging. However, the abstract fails to address the potential challenges associated with the development and deployment of clean technologies, circular economy practices, and sustainable agriculture. Without comprehensive strategies and support mechanisms for research and development, funding, and collaboration, relying solely on innovation may prove insufficient in achieving the desired outcomes. Although the EU highlights the importance of international cooperation, knowledge sharing, and support for developing countries, it falls short of providing a clear roadmap for achieving these objectives. Merely advocating for increased collaboration without specifying concrete measures to facilitate technology transfer, financial assistance, and capacity-building undermines the effectiveness of these intentions. The implications of the EU's climate target for 2040 are undoubtedly significant. While the pursuit of green infrastructure, sustainable industries, and job creation is commendable, the abstract lacks a critical examination of the potential socioeconomic impacts and distributional effects of these changes. Neglecting to address potential trade-offs and the need for a just transition may result in unintended consequences and exacerbate existing inequalities. In conclusion, while the EU's climate target for 2040 demonstrates ambition and commitment, a more critical examination reveals gaps and uncertainties in its implementation strategy. Concrete plans, adequate funding, and robust regulatory frameworks are essential for translating intentions into actions. Additionally, a comprehensive analysis of the potential challenges and distributional effects of the proposed measures is necessary to ensure a fair and effective transition to a sustainable future. As global healthcare professionals, we, the family doctors unite in our plea to world leaders to take immediate action to protect the well-being of people worldwide from the climate crisis. With our expertise in family medicine, we hold a unique position to raise awareness about planetary health and advocate for behavioral changes that can improve both individual and planetary well-being, as stated by WONCA in Planetary Health 2018. The impact of climate change on human health is already widespread and alarming and we are witnessing a growing number of health emergencies triggered by the climate crisis. Despite the escalating harm and suffering, new fossil fuel resources continue to be exploited, leading to a rise in GHG. It's imperative to put an end to the expansion of fossils fuels.
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