Building a European strategic Research and Innovation Area in Direct Synergy with EU and International Initiatives for Pandemic Preparedness PLUS

BE READY PLUS aims to extend and enhance the efforts initiated by BE READY in preparing for pandemic response across Europe. The primary objective is to establish a robust and coordinated European Partnership (EP) for pandemic preparedness, fostering strategic alignment among Member States, Associated Countries, and key stakeholders. This will be achieved through the following key pillars:1) Paving the way for the future European Partnership: BE READY PLUS will provide the necessary administrative and organizational support to ensure a smooth transition to the EP. This includes drafting operational procedures, governance frameworks, preparing requirements to launch Joint Transnational Calls, and engaging key stakeholders to create a solid research and innovation framework. 2) Paving the way for pandemic preparedness: The Strategic Research and Innovation Agenda (SRIA) established by BE READY will be disseminated and updated to reflect new research needs and gaps. BE READY PLUS will also prepare the ground for ever-warm networks of clinical, study sites across Europe, ensuring rapid response capabilities for future health threats. 3) Maximizing the impact of BE READY PLUS: This pillar ensures comprehensive communication and dissemination activities, leveraging digital platforms while maintaining crucial engagements. It aims to engage a wide range of stakeholders, from scientific communities to policymakers and the public, to foster collaboration and increase awareness about pandemic preparedness. BE READY PLUS builds on the successful foundation of BE READY, expanding the consortium to 31 partners from 21 countries, by the addition of 10 new partners and 5 new countries. We will work in synergy with a broad range of European stakeholders and initiatives. Overall, BE READY PLUS will contribute to a more resilient Europe by preparing a detailed operational framework, fostering strategic coordination, and ensuring readiness for swift response to future health crises.