Work Package 7: Governance, Membership and Engagement in the EU Network of Comprehensive Cancer Centres

Key activities

• Designing the governance framework: Building on the CraNE project’s results, define the governance architecture of the EU network of CCCs including clarifying bodies, roles, responsibilities and decision-making processes to support its long-term functioning.
• Establishing governance policies and procedures: Develop a coherent set of standard operating procedures to guide the functioning of the EU network of CCCs.
• Designing membership rules and supporting network expansion: Develop clear criteria for membership and contributing to the gradual inclusion of centres from all EU Member States and Associated Countries, ensuring balanced and broad participation.
• Operationalising governance structures: Set up an interim governance of the EU network of CCCs and coordinating the transition to a permanent, independent structure by the project’s end.
• Onboarding and engagement: Support new members in joining and actively participating in the EU network of CCCs and its activities, while also fostering collaboration with external stakeholders.
• Evaluating governance performance: Regularly assess the effectiveness, inclusivity, and transparency of the governance system to ensure continuous improvement.

Expected outcomes

By the conclusion of the JA, WP7 will ensure that the EU network of CCCs will have a fully operational governance structure in place comprising of defined bodies, standing operating procedures and decision-making mechanisms. This will be supported by an active and expanding membership. This functioning network will empower CCCs and aspiring CCCs to connect, collaborate, and drive excellence in cancer care and research across Europe, reducing disparities and improving patient outcomes through shared knowledge, aligned practices, and collective innovation.

Contribution to the Joint Action

WP7 is the backbone of the infrastructure of the EU network of CCCs. It enables the integration and coordination of the key functions developed across the JA by providing a shared governance platform. Through its efforts, WP7 ensures that outputs from other WPs are institutionally anchored, scalable, and embedded in a sustainable network model that will persist after the end of the JA, thus supporting the long-term vision of a strong and united European cancer community.