EU-wide strategic framework without binding stockpiling obligations.

On 9 July, Hadja Lahbib, EU Commissioner for Preparedness and Crisis Management, presented the new EU Stockpiling Strategy. The aim is to ensure the supply of essential goods in crisis situations such as natural disasters, armed conflicts, pandemics or cyberattacks and to strengthen the overall resilience of the European Union (EU). At the heart of the strategy is the development of a strategic framework to improve coordination and interoperability of existing stockpiling systems at both national and European level. The strategy relies on voluntary cooperation, cross-sectoral standards and joint planning tools – binding stockpiling obligations are not envisaged.

Broad supply approach

The strategy follows a comprehensive approach along the entire stockpiling cycle, from risk anticipation to procurement and storage, to distribution and civil-military cooperation. It covers essential goods that are necessary for key societal functions. These include not only medical countermeasures such as vaccines, medicines and protective equipment, but also critical raw materials (e.g. rare earths), emergency supplies (e.g. tents, generators), energy components and supply goods for the agricultural and water infrastructure.

Seven fields of action

The Commission identifies seven key areas: Coordination between the Member States and the EU is to be strengthened through a new stockpiling network, which will develop recommendations on minimum requirements and quantities. Risk analyses and needs assessments are to be improved and a new “Crisis Coordination Hub” is to be established. In addition, existing EU reserves such as “rescEU” are to be specifically expanded in order to close gaps.

Furthermore, transport and logistics systems are to be made more robust and dual-use capable. Civil-military cooperation is to be deepened, including through closer collaboration with NATO. Cooperation with industry is also to be strengthened through incentives. Finally, the EU aims for more international partnerships, for example through joint stockpiling with third countries.

No budget, no obligations

Implementation will take place through the new EU stockpiling network and a “Preparedness Task Force”. An initial review is planned for 2026. Concrete financing is currently not foreseen; corresponding measures are to be included in the next Multiannual Financial Framework.

The strategy is a response to current geopolitical and climate challenges as well as the lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic. It focuses less on centralised reserves and more on better coordination of existing structures. The EU assumes a coordinating role in this context.

Perspective of the DSV

In its feedback, the German Social Insurance (DSV) called for a mandatory EU-wide stockpiling system for critical medicines. This is not reflected in the strategy. However, the Commission announces its intention to expand central EU reserves such as rescEU. With regard to the proposal for a Critical Medicines Act (CMA), which also contains provisions on medicine stockpiling, it remains to be seen how the delineation between the two instruments will be made. Calls are already emerging from the European Parliament to harmonise the very diverse national provisions.