How can Europe stay ahead in the global race for life science innovation – and at the same time build stronger, more resilient health systems? The answer, many agreed at today’s Copenhagen Life Science Summit, may be spelled with three letters: PPP.
Public-private partnerships are no silver bullet. But when done right, they can turn brilliant research into real-world solutions, create growth and jobs, and improve health for millions of Europeans.
“Trust and transparency are key”
Stine Bosse, MEP and Vice-Chair of the European Parliament’s Committee on Public Health, taps into the debate from the parliament in Strasbourg, saying that the key is ensuring that partnerships benefit citizens.
“The EU can balance industry interests and public trust by further enhancing transparency in decision-making, engaging citizens in policymaking, and ensuring that policies deliver tangible benefits. Collaboration through public-private partnerships can enhance Europe’s competitiveness in life sciences, achieving strategic autonomy and resilience for all citizens. Denmark shows how partnerships across public and private actors can create both growth and health – and can inspire the rest of Europe.”
“Research is Europe’s growth engine”
Charl van Zyl, CEO of Lundbeck, points to research and investment as Europe’s competitive edge:
“To attract more life science investment to Europe, we must stimulate collaboration across sectors and countries, creating an ecosystem that drives innovation and accelerates the translation of research into better patient outcomes. Research and innovation are Europe’s true competitive strengths — they are key to understanding patient needs and developing new solutions that improve lives. By investing in cross-sector partnerships and collaborative research, Europe can generate sustainable growth and strengthen its position as a global leader in life science innovation.”
New publication: Danish lessons for Europe
To mark the occasion, Healthcare Denmark launches a new publication: “Public-private partnerships in healthcare and life science.” It gathers Danish experiences and case examples that show how PPPs can deliver better outcomes for patients, boost competitiveness, and strengthen health systems – lessons that Europe can build on.
Download the publication here.
The Copenhagen Life Science Summit (8–9 October 2025) takes place under the Danish Presidency of the Council of the EU. Hosted by Rigshospitalet and Healthcare Denmark in Innovation District Copenhagen, the Summit brings together leaders from politics, industry, academia, and patient communities to explore how Europe can turn health innovation into competitiveness.