Focal Point Network

Established in 2008, the Focal Point (FP) Network consists of representatives from the national food safety authorities of the Member States (MSs), Iceland and Norway, as well as observers from Switzerland and EU candidate countries. FPs act as connecting hubs and operate in a multiannual, flexible and tailor-made system, focussing on different areas of work.

Advisory Forum (AF)

FPs support the AF in the practical implementation of activities related to networking and scientific cooperation.

National Competent Organisations

FPs manage the EFSA List of Competent Organisations, facilitate networking and collaboration between organisations, and facilitate the inclusion of new organisations on the list.

EFSA Scientific Networks (SNs)

FPs keep regular exchange with SN participants, support cooperation among FP, SNs, AF and EFSA Management Board members, as well as experts’ nomination process.

Observer Countries

MS FPs work closely together with representatives from Switzerland and EU candidate countries to ensure food safety across Europe.

Other relevant national actors

FPs support expertise mapping at national level to ensure the identification of relevant experts and to raise the visibility of EFSA’s work.

Strategic orientation

Vision

• A fit-for purpose and sustainable network of national FPs working together to contribute to a resilient food safety system in Europe.

Mission

• FPs to act as connecting hubs between EFSA, national actors and relevant actors from other countries.
• FPs to address EFSA’s and national needs and priorities for a cohesive food safety system in Europe.
• FPs to foster the creation of partnerships.

Areas of work

• Knowledge and information management and support to scientific production
• Engagement, collaboration & partnership
• Capacity building
• Data
• Risk communication

Types of activities 

Principal activities

• Core activities of the network that define the functioning of the role of FPs
• Are the same for all FPs and remain constant throughout the lifecycle of the framework
• Facilitate information exchange, networking and partnerships, as well as operational support to AF

Tailor-made activities

• Activities addressing specific priorities of MSs and EFSA
• Proposed by MSs and/or EFSA, including their communities
• Fit with EFSA’s remit and strategy
• Bring short- and mid-term benefits to the EU food safety ecosystem
• Support the establishment of long-term partnerships
• Support preparedness for future risk assessment work
• Follow an inclusive and choice-driven approach

For more detailed information on EFSA’s cooperation with Member States, please check the EFSA webpage on EU Member States and in the infographic How EFSA works with EU Member States. For more details on Competent organisations in Member States please see the EFSA webpage here.