European Commission

The European Commission is the executive branch of the European Union, based in Brussels, and in the public-health domain it coordinates EU-level action on health policy and crisis response. Its work in this area is carried out chiefly through its health directorate and related bodies and agencies. The Commission proposes EU health legislation, supports cooperation among member states, and manages programs on disease prevention, medicines and medical devices, food safety, and health security. It works alongside specialized agencies such as the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control and the European Medicines Agency. Public health is largely a national competence within the EU, so the Commission's role centers on coordination, funding, and common rules rather than direct delivery of healthcare.