Factsheet – How the European Commission works on Rare Diseases and the European Reference Networks (ERNs)

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Overview of the European Commission’s coordinated approach to rare diseases, including policy, research, and the role of European Reference Networks.

This factsheet outlines how the European Commission supports action on rare diseases through policy frameworks, research funding, and collaboration across Member States. It explains the role of European Reference Networks (ERNs) as cross-border networks connecting specialised centres to address rare and complex conditions, and highlights initiatives related to orphan medicines, medical devices, and data sharing, including the European Health Data Space.

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Factsheet – How the European Commission works on Rare Diseases and the European Reference Networks (ERNs)

Year of publication

2026

Source

European Commission – Directorate-General for Health and Food Safety

Author

Directorate-General for Health and Food Safety (European Commission)

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