The European Lung Foundation (ELF) and the European Respiratory Society (ERS) have released a joint statement warning that science is under serious threat from funding cuts, political pressure and misleading information circulating on the internet.
Science has brought us life-changing progress – from vaccines to cancer screening and cleaner air policies. But attacks on science, the spread of false information, and cuts to research funding could undo years of progress and put patients, families, and communities at risk.
Independent science means research that is free from political influence or commercial pressure. It provides the evidence for new medicines, safer treatments, prevention programmes, and better healthcare planning.
During crises like COVID-19, independent science makes it possible to quickly understand new threats and develop vaccines, tests, and treatments that save lives. It also helps us prepare for future challenges, like climate change, air pollution and new diseases.
False or misleading information about health spreads quickly, especially online. This can make people lose trust in science and healthcare, delay getting the care they need, or take decisions that put their health at risk.
For example, during the pandemic, the World Health Organization found that most health information shared online contained errors or was misleading. This disinformation was linked to vaccine hesitancy, delays in seeking treatment and poorer health outcomes.
Everyone has the right to access clear, trustworthy and evidence-based health information.
Global health challenges cannot be solved by one country alone. Working together across borders speeds up scientific progress, reduces costs, and makes sure treatments reach more people.
The COVID-19 vaccine roll-out showed what is possible when countries and researchers work together. Without international cooperation, it would have taken much longer to develop and share vaccines worldwide.
Science also benefits when patients and the public are included. Listening to lived experiences makes research more relevant and ensures it leads to real improvements in people’s lives.
We call on European leaders and governments to:
Science affects us all – our health, our families and our future.
Dimitris Kontopidis, ELF Chair, said:
“Patients and the public deserve access to reliable, evidence-based information. Everyone has the right to make health decisions based on trustworthy knowledge, not disinformation that puts lives at risk.”
Dr Eva Polverino, ERS Director of Scientific Relations with the European Union, added:
“Independent, collaborative science is the backbone of public health. It must be protected from disinformation and political manipulation if we are to face today’s urgent challenges, from air pollution and climate change to infectious and chronic diseases.”
We are calling on leaders to unite in protecting science so we can build a healthier, fairer, and more resilient future for everyone.
→ Access the statement
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