Casa Advocates for Stronger EU Disability Strategy, Greater Attention to Rheumatology

Addressing the last plenary session of the European Parliament this year, MEP and PN Head of Delegation David Casa called for a more inclusive and holistic approach to addressing chronic illnesses and disability in Europe.

Casa pitched a more ambitious effort in the upcoming Disability Strategy, the present one which is due to expire next year.

“Europe has made significant strides in supporting people with disabilities, but there is so much more we must do,” the MEP argued. “We have a mandate to do more. The European Commission must listen to the science and recognize that RMDs are a pressing issue that requires immediate and sustained attention.”

“Many still believe that conditions like arthritis are an inevitability associated with old age,” Casa warned. "But the reality is that chronic illnesses affect people of all ages; and yet, European policies are failing to provide the necessary support for them.

“We are not investing enough in understanding or alleviating these conditions.”

Casa highlighted the fact that Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Diseases (RMDs) are the leading cause of disability in Europe, emphasising not just health challenges but also significant barriers to employment, particularly for women, thus placing a heavy burden on both the economy and the quality of life for countless families.

“The European Union has a moral responsibility to ensure that those suffering from chronic illnesses do not face unnecessary hardships,” Casa declared, arguing for providing the necessary tools to help those affected by RMDs and other chronic conditions to live their lives to the fullest.

Casa, previously the EPP coordinator for the Employment and Social Affairs Committee on which he has been a long-time member, was the EPP negotiator on the Directive establishing a European Disability Card which found immense support in plenary last April.