This conference explores how Europe can secure global leadership in the life sciences sector, putting the value of health at the heart of policymaking.  

With the Biotech Act and other pivotal EU policy files due to advance during the Irish Presidency of the Council of the EU, the conference offers a timely platform to debate the future direction of Europe’s life sciences ecosystem. Speakers discuss the complementary goals of industry competitiveness and therapeutic excellence, debating the policies, partnerships, and ecosystem transformation required to develop groundbreaking treatments and deliver better outcomes for patients across the EU.

This conference is sponsored by Johnson & Johnson and is recognised as an Associated Event of the Irish Presidency of the Council of the European Union 2026.

The event began with a keynote address followed by two panel discussions:

1. Sharpening Europe’s Competitive Edge

This panel explores the policies and conditions needed to strengthen Europe’s position as a global leader in life sciences research, development and advanced manufacturing. In particular, the discussion focuses on how initiatives such as the forthcoming EU Biotech Act and related policy developments can support innovation, attract investment, build skills and enhance Europe’s competitiveness.

Panellists include:

• Thomas Van Cangh, Deputy Head of Unit & Head of Biotech Task Force, DG SANTE, European Commission
• Rachel Shelly, Global Head of Life Sciences & Food, IDA Ireland
• Anouk De Vroey, Head of Government Affairs & Policy at Johnson & Johnson EMEA
• Prof. Mark Ferguson, Former Chairman of the European Innovation Council (EIC) Board

2. Driving Innovation for Patients

This panel examines how sustained commitment to research, innovation and health system modernisation can accelerate the development and deployment of next-generation therapies across Europe. It also looks at how public policy, private investment and multi-stakeholder collaboration can improve patient outcomes while supporting a thriving life sciences ecosystem.

Panellists include:

• Rainer Becker, Director of Medical Products & Innovation, DG SANTE, European Commission
• Vytenis Andriukaitis MEP, Biotech Act Rapporteur for SANT Committee, European Parliament, and former European Commissioner for Health & Food Safety   
• Claire Skentelbery, Director General, EuropaBio
• Avril Daly, President of EURORDIS - Rare Diseases Europe
• Muiris O’Connor, Assistant Secretary at Department of Health, Head of Research & Development and Health Analytics

3. Keynote Address by Jennifer Carroll MacNeill, Minister for Health followed by a fireside chat with Audrey Carville. 

Agenda: