On 12 March, following World Obesity Day (4 March), the European Commission shared a statement during the Parliamentary plenary session on the worrying rise in obesity across Europe. European Commissioner Hoekstra presented the Safe Hearts Plan, launched in December 2025, as the EU’s primary response to the rise in obesity, emphasising prevention as the most efficient and cost-effective approach. Sport and physical activity were highlighted as key levers, with specific reference to EU initiatives such as the European Week of Sport and the #BeActive campaign.
MEPs across political groups shared this vision, agreeing on the importance of addressing sedentary lifestyles and promoting healthy lifestyles, including through sport and physical activity. Several MEPs called for increased EU investment in sport initiatives and infrastructure, with MEP Nina Carberry (EPP, Ireland) notably advocating for 5% of Erasmus+ budget for 2028-2034 to be dedicated to sport, a position championed by the EOC EU Office.