In the first half of 2026, the Republic of Cyprus will hold the Presidency of the Council of the European Union and will be the voice of the 27 member states. The Presidency will take the third shift of the trio with Poland and Denmark under the motto “An Autonomous Union. Open to the World.”

The Cyprus Presidency has set out a working programme highlighting priorities of particular relevance to the physiotherapy sector:

• Mental Health and Inclusion: Special focus on youth, with active engagement of all stakeholders in policy development. Key events include the High-Level Conference in Cyprus (January 2026) and the Informal EPSCO Health Council meeting (February 2026).

• Physical activity: In sport, the Presidency will promote active ageing while strengthening integrity and good governance.

• EU Cardiovascular Action Plan: Cardiovascular health will be prioritized, and a dedicated policy event will be organized, building on previous Presidencies’ work.

• International Health Cooperation: Cooperation with third countries and regional and international organizations, especially WHO, will be coordinated to address new and emerging health threats.

• European Health Data Space: Promotion of the European Health Data Space will support the integration of health systems and the completion of the European Health Union.

Through these actions, the Cyprus Presidency aims to transform health challenges into opportunities, ensuring all EU citizens have access to quality healthcare, innovation, and resilient health systems.

More information on the upcoming presidency can be found here.

These policy priorities create opportunities for the Europe Region of World Physiotherapy to actively contribute to building a stronger, more inclusive, and healthier Europe.