Migraine is a complex and often debilitating bio-neurological disorder affecting a significant portion of the global population. Despite being the second leading cause of years lived with disability globally, as reported in the 2019 Global Burden of Disease Study, migraine remains underrecognised and undertreated. This lack of attention results in delayed diagnoses, inadequate treatment, and substantial socioeconomic costs.
Policymakers have a unique opportunity to implement changes that can significantly improve the lives of people with migraines while reducing the economic burden associated with inadequate care.
This white paper advocates for the inclusion of migraine in the 2025 EU Neurological Health Strategy, stressing the importance of treating it as a serious neurological disorder that demands coordinated action at both European and national levels. Drawing on conclusions from a 2024 policy roundtable at the European Headache Congress, it highlights key priorities to improve migraine care across the EU, including enhancing medical education, streamlining care pathways, implementing workplace interventions, and improving access to innovation and commitment on policy recognition.
The paper also serves as a tool for national advocacy, supporting alignment between national and EU strategies. By encouraging collaboration among stakeholders —patient groups, healthcare professionals, and policymakers— it aims to build a more integrated and equitable approach to migraine care. This document provides timely, evidence-based recommendations to address persistent gaps in migraine treatment and policy.