About the Innovative Medicines Initiative (IMI) – Legal Aspects
Responsibility
The European Commission and the European Federation of Pharmaceutical Industries and Associations (EFPIA) hold joint responsibility for creating and operating a Joint Technology Initiative (JTI) that will implement the Strategic Research Agenda of the IMI.
Legal status
IMI is established based on
article 171 of the Treaty establishing the European Community (“The Community may set up joint undertakings or any other structure necessary for the efficient execution of Community research, technological development and demonstration programmes”).
Rationale for JTI Status
JTI status represents the highest level of pan-European public and private sector collaboration and co-ordination, which is needed because the scientific challenges are too complex for organizations and nations to address in isolation. For IMI to succeed it is essential that it receives JTI status.