This paper sets the framework of cancer leagues’ understanding of cancer policy and what is required to reverse the increase in cancer rates and close the inequality gap throughout the EU. The cancer leagues have a crucial role in the move towards more coordinated and harmonised cancer control efforts due to their national and regional influence and their being the main source of information and service for the general public. ECL' Position Paper 2020 Cancer is a complex set of diseases and every stage in the cancer control continuum requires different tools and services. Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan should complement and amplify the impact of national and regional cancer control plans. This paper is the result of an extensive consultation process with the ECL’s members and focuses on key areas where Europe should work as one to improve cancer control and care. It is not intended as a comprehensive blueprint for national cancer policy