European Parliament adopts resolution on gender inequalities in healthcare

On September 16, 2026, the European Parliament adopted a report addressing gender inequalities in healthcare across Europe. The measure passed with 390 votes in favor, 218 against, and 29 abstentions, identifying current medical disparities as a violation of fundamental human rights.

MEPs highlighted that decades of medical research and clinical practices have disproportionately focused on the male anatomy. This systemic bias has negatively impacted clinical trials, diagnostic accuracy, and patient treatment. The parliament now mandates that future EU-funded health policy and research projects must be based on objective biological data regarding both men and women. Furthermore, the report calls for more inclusive research designs, specifically emphasizing the need to include pregnant and breastfeeding women in clinical trials to ensure comprehensive healthcare standards.