Rare diseases, defined in Europe as affecting fewer than 1 in 2000 citizens, impact around 30 million EU citizens and encompass a wide range of disorders and symptoms. These diseases often lead to misdiagnosis, reduced quality of life, and a lack of effective cures, with many being genetic in origin. To improve outcomes for patients, there is a need for comprehensive public health policies, international scientific collaboration, enhanced awareness, and better access to diagnosis and treatment.