The Role of the Cohort Coordination Board in Supporting Data Sharing and Data Harmonization Efforts in Europe as Part of Pandemic Preparedness

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the critical importance of clinical research preparedness and the benefits of coordinating European clinical research initiatives. This chapter examines the role of observational studies, particularly cohort studies, during pandemics and their significance in pandemic preparedness. Additionally, it explores the key challenges in conducting such studies, which are often closely linked to data-sharing limitations and barriers to harmonization. Among the solutions proposed by the research community, formal coordination mechanisms— such as the Cohort Coordination Board—play a crucial role in fostering long-term preparedness for future infectious disease epidemics and pandemics. The chapter also reviews the main contributions of the Cohort Coordination Board in facilitating data sharing and harmonization to enhance pandemic preparedness