News

Strengthening partnerships with non-State actors to achieve the European Programme of Work – “United Action for Better Health in Europe” 02-07-2021
More than 90 non-State actors (NSAs) joined a briefing highlighting the WHO Regional Committee for Europe’s agenda, and recommending ways to engage and showcase their work undertaken in collaboration with WHO/Europe.
Ending this pandemic, preventing the next one: European perspectives at the Seventy-fourth World Health Assembly 03-06-2021
The Seventy-fourth World Health Assembly, held on 24–31 May 2021, was once again dominated by discussions on responding to the short- and longer-term consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic, and on ensuring that countries, health systems, organizations and societies are better prepared to meet the challenges of future health threats.
WHO/Europe’s governing board decides to hold virtual Regional Committee 20-05-2021
Members of the Standing Committee of the Regional Committee (SCRC) met on 18 May 2021 to agree on the agenda for the upcoming 71st session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe.
COVID-19: a continued call for international solidarity and equity 15-03-2021
Exactly one year after COVID-19 was characterised as a pandemic, the 28th Standing Committee of the Regional Committee (SCRC), on the occasion of its third regular meeting, wishes to express its heartfelt sympathy and solidarity with people, families and communities who have been directly or indirectly affected by this pandemic, which has to date, reached the level of 40 million cases and nearly 900,000 registered deaths in the WHO European Region and appreciates the dedication and sacrifice of frontline workers throughout this pandemic to protect and save lives wherever possible and at a high personal cost....
WHO/Europe looks ahead to a busy 2021 08-02-2021
Following an unprecedented year for WHO in 2020, WHO/Europe looks ahead to 2021 with a focus on the continuing COVID-19 pandemic alongside the implementation of the European Programme of Work.
Outstanding public health achievements from the WHO European Region receive the highest recognition at the resumed 73rd World Health Assembly 13-11-2020
At the resumed Seventy-third World Health Assembly, 2 individuals and 1 organization from the WHO European Region were awarded prestigious global public health prizes for their significant contribution to population health.
Belarus, Denmark, France and Slovenia to fill seats on the WHO Executive Board 02-11-2020
Following the results of a secret ballot postal voting process, earlier this week the Deputy Executive President of the 70th session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe, Dr Iva Pejnović Franelić, announced that Belarus, Denmark, France and Slovenia would put forward their candidatures for the WHO Executive Board at the Seventy-fourth World Health Assembly (WHA) in May 2021.
Ministers back 5-year plan to put health in Europe on track 14-09-2020
Today, ministers of health and public health leaders from the 53 Member States of the WHO European Region endorsed a new 5-year vision, the European Programme of Work (EPW) 2020–2025, that sets down how WHO/Europe and its Member States will work together to meet citizens’ expectations for health.
Digital health: transforming and extending the delivery of health services 09-09-2020
Digital health is a broad category encompassing electronic health, mobile health, telehealth and health data, among others. It offers solutions that can strengthen health systems, such as bringing health services directly to people’s homes and to underserved communities, helping to map outbreaks of disease, and integrating digital tools that make health care more responsive and productive.
WHO Regional Director for Europe gives update on the work of the Regional Office ahead of virtual Regional Committee 09-09-2020
Ahead of the 70th Regional Committee (RC70), to be held virtually for the first time, Dr Hans Henri P. Kluge gave an update on the recent work of WHO’s Regional Office for Europe with the Standing Committee of the Regional Committee (SCRC). The meeting of the SCRC continued its preparations for RC70, including nominating officers, creating a credential committee and establishing a short list of candidates for the Executive Board and Standing Committee. This session also marked the final time that Dr Søren Brostrøm will chair the SCRC.
Health priorities for the European Region and COVID-19 in focus at WHO annual meeting 08-09-2020
On 14–15 September 2020, health ministers and high-level representatives of the 53 Member States of the WHO European Region, along with partner organizations and civil society, will meet virtually for the 70th session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe (RC70), the Region’s annual decision-making meeting.
Unleashing the potential of vaccines for a healthier Europe 02-09-2020
Compared to every other WHO region, the European Region has the lowest mortality figures for children under the age of 5. The Region has been free from poliomyelitis since 2002, and many Member States have also stopped the endemic spread of measles and rubella.
Inaugural meeting of Pan-European Commission on Health and Sustainable Development takes place 28-08-2020
The inaugural meeting of the Pan-European Commission on Health and Sustainable Development took place on 26 August, bringing together the Commission’s members for the first time to review the objectives and agree the terms and scope of the Commission.
Tailoring health interventions: behavioural and cultural insights for health 19-08-2020
Behavioural and cultural insights are still relatively underutilized in global health. By drawing on fields outside of medicine such as the social sciences and health humanities (including anthropology, history, sociology and psychology), it is possible to develop more effective health interventions.
New 5-year programme for health in Europe on the agenda at virtual annual meeting 03-07-2020
The 70th session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe (RC70), the annual meeting of the governing bodies of the European Region, will be held on 14–15 September 2020. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the meeting will be held virtually with a reduced 2-day programme.
WHO/Europe launches new podcast – Health in Europe 01-07-2020
Health in Europe is a new podcast from the WHO Regional Office for Europe. WHO works with thousands of inspiring and driven individuals and groups, and this podcast is about hearing their stories and how they might impact your day-to-day life.
World Health Assembly adopts resolution to intensify efforts to control COVID-19 at virtual session 26-05-2020
Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, has welcomed the resolution on global commitment to the COVID-19 response adopted by Member States during the Seventy-third World Health Assembly. For the first time, the World Health Assembly was held in a virtual capacity due to the COVID-19 pandemic affecting countries around the world.
Towards united action for better health: new WHO Regional Director for Europe takes up office 03-02-2020
Dr Hans Kluge, a Belgian national, has today been endorsed by WHO’s Executive Board to lead the Organization’s Regional Office for Europe for the next five years. He will direct international health work across the 53 countries of the WHO European Region, serving a population of 900 million people.
The year ahead: key events across the WHO European Region in 2020 21-01-2020
A busy and exciting year is in store for the WHO European Region with a range of important initiatives, campaigns and events on the horizon. WHO/Europe will continue to work to implement the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as well as WHO’s 13th General Programme of Work. In February, WHO/Europe is set to welcome Dr Hans Kluge as the new Regional Director once his nomination is approved by WHO’s Executive Board. Dr Kluge will take over from Dr Piroska Östlin, Regional Director (a.i.) who, as part of her mandate, has been leading the Office’s efforts to put countries at the centre. Dr Zsuzsanna Jakab was declared Regional Director Emeritus by the 69th session of the Regional Committee in September 2019.
2019: the WHO European Region’s year in review 19-12-2019
This was an important year for WHO/Europe. From working towards more affordable health care to electing a new Regional Director, much has been achieved over the past 12 months. The Region also celebrated some important anniversaries, including a quarter century of the Regions for Health Network and 30 years of tackling the most significant environmental threats to human health. While plenty of work remains, here we look back at some key moments of the last year. The stories highlight achievements across the Region as well as some specific country initiatives.
Day 4 highlights: Regional Director thanks “the strongest minds and warmest hearts in public health” 19-09-2019
On the fourth and final day of the 69th session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe (RC69), Member States adopted a resolution on promoting health literacy that seeks to help people make informed health decisions. Dr Zsuzsanna Jakab also expressed her deep thanks to delegates and staff for their commitment to public health during her 10-year mandate as WHO Regional Director for Europe.
Day 3 highlights: Resolution on accelerating primary health care adopted 19-09-2019
WHO’s strengthened collaboration with the European Commission, the invaluable work of WHO country offices, and a resolution on 10 evidence-based policy accelerators for strengthening primary health care were in focus on Day 3 of the 69th session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe (RC69).
Day 2 highlights: Dr Hans Kluge nominated next WHO Regional Director for Europe 17-09-2019
Member States of the WHO European Region nominated Dr Hans Kluge of Belgium as the next WHO Regional Director for Europe during a private session on Day 2 of the 69th session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe (RC69).
Day 1 highlights: RC69 opens 16-09-2019
Health 2020, health equity and public health leadership were key themes on the first day of the 69th session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe (RC69). The session opened with a charming series of international songs performed by the children’s choir of The Royal Danish Academy of Music.
Europe reviews decade of public health progress, and plans for the future at WHO annual meeting 16-09-2019
Over 500 high-level representatives, including many health ministers from the 53 Member States of the WHO European Region, will review 10 years of public health progress, address remaining and new challenges and nominate a new Regional Director at the 69th session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe in Copenhagen, Denmark, on 16–19 September 2019. Together with partners and civil society representatives, they will mark the achievements of Health 2020, the European policy for health and well-being that has driven the Region’s efforts on health towards sustainable development.
Crown Princess of Denmark to address health ministers at the European Region’s annual meeting 06-09-2019
Her Royal Highness The Crown Princess of Denmark will address the 69th session of the annual WHO Regional Committee for Europe on 16 September 2019, in her capacity as WHO/Europe Patron.
Member States to reflect on 10 years of progress in public health and set health priorities for Europe at RC69 15-07-2019
On 16–19 September 2019, health ministers and high-level representatives of the 53 Member States of the WHO European Region, along with partner organizations and civil society, will gather for the 69th session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe (RC69).
The year ahead: key events for the WHO European Region in 2019 23-01-2019
In 2019, the WHO European Region will maintain its focus on implementing the Sustainable Development Goals and embarking on WHO’s next 5-year global programme of work. But it will also take stock of progress to implement Health 2020 and place greater emphasis on areas of work such as digital health and health equity. Read on for more details.
2018: The WHO European Region’s Year in Review 21-12-2018
The year 2018 was a momentous one for WHO, which celebrated 70 years of working to improve the health and well-being of people around the world. Here is a look back at some of the key moments from the year – highlighting both country-level activities and the collective achievements of the Region, but also emphasizing areas where continued work and even accelerated efforts will be needed to make progress.
Day 4 highlights: countries at the centre of health work 20-09-2018
“It is now clearer than ever that we need to be bolder and reach further, to engage effectively with all those that have a stake in health,” said Dr Zsuzsanna Jakab on the final day of RC68. Many non-State actors were accredited to attend future sessions of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe, and Member States applauded the work of country offices.
Day 3 highlights: Strategy on the health and well-being of men in the WHO European Region adopted 19-09-2018
Why do men die prematurely, and what can be done to change this? And how do we advance public health to meet future societal needs? The Region now has stronger tools to answer these questions, following today’s adoption of the Strategy on the health and well-being of men and a 10-point action plan on public health.
Day 2 highlights: strengthening health systems to advance the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development 18-09-2018
“For us, the goal of universal health coverage is the lodestar of our health policy,” said His Excellency Prime Minister Edi Rama of Albania. From improving vaccine coverage to ensuring financial protection, strengthening health systems was a key theme on Day 2 of the 68th session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe.
Day 1 highlights: RC68 opens 17-09-2018
“Health investment is the smartest investment – it pays off,” said WHO Regional Director for Europe Dr Zsuzsanna Jakab in her opening address on the first day of the 68th session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe. This was a common theme also raised by the WHO Director-General and delegates alike.
Ireland builds capacity to improve men’s health 12-09-2018
In 2008, the Irish Government released the National Men’s Health Policy 2008–2013, which included strategies for engaging men in self-care. Within this framework, the Government recently rolled out a new training programme called ENGAGE to improve the capacity of health providers and improve men’s access to and use of health services.
Annual meeting of ministers to set health priorities in Europe 14-08-2018
On 17 September 2018 in Rome, Italy, health ministers and high-level representatives of the 53 Member States of the WHO European Region will gather for the annual WHO Regional Committee for Europe. At this year’s 68th session, participants will consider topics including a new strategy on men’s health, financial protection and an action plan to improve public health preparedness and response.
Seventy-first World Health Assembly comes to a close after charting a new course for WHO 29-05-2018
The Seventy-first World Health Assembly took place on 21–26 May 2018 in Geneva, Switzerland. Over the course of the 6 days, delegates charted a new course for the Organization.
Delegates at World Health Assembly agree on new 5-year strategic plan 25-05-2018
World Health Assembly delegates have agreed on an ambitious new strategic plan for the next 5 years. The WHO’s 13th General Programme of Work (GPW) is designed to help the world achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) – with a particular focus on SDG3: ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all at all ages by 2030.
Seventy-first World Health Assembly opens 23-05-2018
Delegations from WHO’s 194 Member States, many of them led by health ministers, have gathered once again in Geneva, Switzerland, for the Seventy-first World Health Assembly on 21–26 May 2018. Its outcome will determine WHO’s direction for the coming 5 years, as countries consider whether to adopt the proposed 13th General Programme of Work 2019–2023 (GPW13).
World Health Assembly to determine WHO’s direction for next 5 years 18-05-2018
The Seventy-first World Health Assembly takes place in Geneva, Switzerland, on 21–26 May 2018. Delegations from countries around the world will gather to review and approve a specific health agenda, including a new general programme of work that outlines the vision and strategic direction for WHO in the coming years.
New procedure to accredit regional non-State actors not in official relations with WHO to the WHO Regional Committee for Europe 08-11-2017
The 67th WHO Regional Committee for Europe, which took place on 11–14 September 2017 in Budapest, Hungary, endorsed a procedure to accredit regional non-State actors not in official relations with WHO to participate in meetings of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe (Document EUR/RC67/17 Rev.1 and Resolution EUR/RC67/R7 on “Partnerships for health in the WHO European Region”), in line with paragraph 57 of the WHO Framework of Engagement with Non-State Actors (Resolution WHA69.10).
WHO Director-General announces leadership team 03-10-2017
Five members of the senior leadership team announced on 3 October 2017 by Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, are from the WHO European Region. The team of 14 comprises former ministers of health, some of the world’s leading physicians, scientists and researchers, and programmatic experts.
RC67 concludes: “Our message is reaching further and higher” 18-09-2017
“Our message is reaching further and higher” These are the words of WHO Regional Director for Europe Dr Zsuzsanna Jakab in her concluding address to the 67th session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe (RC67). “Health is a political choice,” she added, “and our political leaders are listening, and taking up the call to action.”
Day 4 highlights: partnerships essential in our “multisectoral, multidimensional world” 14-09-2017
Member States enthusiastically endorsed a renewed vision for partnerships for health in the WHO European Region on the final day of the 67th session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe.
Day 3 highlights: “The health workforce is the beating heart of any health system” 13-09-2017
On the third day of the 67th session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe, countries agreed to transform the health workforce in the WHO European Region to ensure that it is sustainable and able to respond to current and future health needs.
Day 2 highlights: Director-General outlines key health priorities 12-09-2017
In a plenary address, Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus laid out his mission for WHO: “To keep the world safe, improve health and serve the vulnerable”. Engaging political leadership for health was a defining theme on the second day of the 67th session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe. Delegates also adopted the Roadmap to implement the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
Day 1 highlights: RC67 opens 11-09-2017
Strong partnerships and collaboration to deliver on ambitious health goals – this was the recurring theme emphasized by high-level speakers and delegates on the first day of the 67th session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe (RC67).
67th session of WHO Regional Committee for Europe opens in Budapest 10-09-2017
Her Royal Highness The Crown Princess of Denmark and the WHO Regional Director for Europe open the 67th session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe on 11 September 2017. Health leaders from all over the WHO European Region, including the European Union, central and eastern Europe, the Caucasus and central Asia gather in Budapest, Hungary, to take decisions on health priorities that will have an impact on the health and well-being of about 900 million people.
European leaders set new roadmap to achieve 2030 Agenda and improve 900 million people’s health and well-being 07-09-2017
Health leaders gather at the annual meeting of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe. In Budapest, Hungary on 11–14 September 2017 they will take decisions on health priorities that will have an impact on the health and well-being of about 900 million people in the WHO European Region, including in the European Union, central and eastern Europe, the Caucasus and central Asia.
Regional Committee: making decisions on key health priorities for the European Region 29-08-2017
On 11 September 2017 in Budapest, Hungary, health ministers and high-level representatives of the 53 Member States of the WHO European Region, along with partner organizations and civil society, will gather for the annual WHO Regional Committee for Europe. The committees provide an opportunity to discuss and make decisions related to key health priorities in the Region. In this year’s 67th session, and in alignment with the Health 2020 policy framework and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, participants will consider topics ranging from building a sustainable health workforce to improving the environment and health.
Turkmenistan celebrates 25th anniversary of WHO membership 17-07-2017
On 2 July 2017, Turkmenistan celebrated the 25th anniversary of its membership with WHO. Throughout these years, WHO goals and objectives have found enormous support, commitment and political will from the Government of Turkmenistan as it has worked to ensure the highest-attainable level of health for its citizens.
Together for a healthier world: Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus speaks at European Development Days 07-07-2017
During European Development Days (EDD) on 7–8 June 2017 in Brussels, Belgium, Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, then WHO Director-General elect, addressed the international development community. He reminded them that health is a fundamental human right and central to development, both globally and within the European Union (EU).
Dr Tedros takes office as WHO Director-General 05-07-2017
On 1 July Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus took office as Director-General of the World Health Organization, succeeding Dr Margaret Chan, who has held office since 1 January 2007.The Director-General is WHO's chief technical and administrative officer and oversees the policy for the Organization's international health work.
World Health Assembly Day 9: Assembly closes after 9 days covering 78 agenda items 01-06-2017
Member States adopted numerous decisions and plans on a wide range of public health issues during the Seventieth World Health Assembly, which closed on 31 May 2017. Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus was elected as the new Director-General of WHO, and will begin his 5-year term on 1 July 2017.
World Health Assembly Day 8: progress on addressing noncommunicable diseases in focus 31-05-2017
Delegates endorsed an updated set of policy options and interventions to help countries meet global targets to prevent and control noncommunicable diseases (NCDs). It places a particular focus on measures to reduce people’s exposure to factors that increase the risk of developing NCDs. These include taxing tobacco and sugar-sweetened beverages, banning tobacco advertising and reformulating food products to reduce salt content.
World Health Assembly Day 7: global action plan on response to dementia agreed 30-05-2017
On 29 May 2017, delegates agreed on a global action plan to ensure that work to address dementia is prioritized. In 2015, dementia affected 47 million people worldwide. This is set to increase to 75 million in 2030. The action plan requires Member States to develop, strengthen and implement policies for dementia; respect the equity, dignity and human rights of people with the disease; and support the needs of carers.
World Health Assembly Day 5 & 6: delegates discuss International Health Regulations, human resources 29-05-2017
Decisions taken by delegates at the World Health Assembly focused on implementing the International Health Regulations (IHR) (2005) and improving the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of sepsis. Delegates emphasized the urgent need to achieve full implementation of the IHR. Public health prizes were also awarded.
World Health Assembly Day 4: polio, pandemic influenza preparedness and health workforce in focus 29-05-2017
On Day 4 of the World Health Assembly, delegates made decisions relating to poliomyelitis (polio), the Pandemic Influenza Preparedness Framework and the health workforce. Side events focused on neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) and noncommunicable diseases (NCDs).
World Health Assembly Day 3: WHO priorities aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 26-05-2017
Delegates at the World Health Assembly approved the Organization’s proposed programme budget of US$4421.5 million for the biennium 2018-2019. This proposed budget sets out the Organization’s priorities in line with the Sustainable Development Goals. It includes increased investments in the new WHO Health Emergencies Programme and combatting antimicrobial resistance.
World Health Assembly Day 2: Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus elected new Director-General 24-05-2017
On 23 May 2017, the Member States of WHO elected Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus as the new Director-General of WHO.
World Health Assembly elects Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus as new WHO Director-General 24-05-2017
On 23 May 2017, the Member States of WHO elected Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus as the new Director-General of WHO.
World Health Assembly Day 1: outgoing Director-General Chan says “reducing inequalities” should guide future health work 23-05-2017
Some 3500 delegates from WHO’s 194 Member States – including a large proportion of the world’s health ministers – are attending the Seventieth World Health Assembly, which ends on 31 May. They are debating ways to advance the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), focusing on building better systems for health.
Seventieth World Health Assembly opens today 22-05-2017
The Seventieth World Health Assembly opens in Geneva, Switzerland, at 9:30 am on Monday 22 May 2017. It will close on Wednesday 31 May. Delegations from all 194 WHO Member States, including the 53 Member States of the WHO European Region, will meet to discuss, review progress and agree on action regarding global health issues.
Reducing the SDG reporting burden: WHO/Europe’s initiative presented at the Regional Forum on Sustainable Development 09-05-2017
The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development underscores the importance of “quality, accessible, timely and reliable disaggregated data … to help with the measurement of progress and to ensure that no one is left behind” (Paragraph 48). Improving the collection, coordination, analysis and dissemination of data and building statistical capacities for monitoring progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) remain significant challenges for all countries in the WHO European Region and beyond.
Member States invited to propose candidates for the WHO Independent Expert Oversight Advisory Committee 10-02-2017
Dr Margaret Chan, WHO Director-General, invites Member States to propose names of potential candidates for membership on the Independent Expert Oversight Advisory Committee (IEOAC). A new selection process is being initiated for a partial renewal of the membership of the IEOAC, as the terms of 3 of its members will expire in January 2018. Following an external review of the candidatures, the Director-General will propose candidates and related details to the 141st session of the WHO Executive Board.
RC66 side event informs of the report of the United Nations High-Level Commission on Health Employment and Economic Growth 19-09-2016
“Health is an investment, not an expense”, was the overarching message of a side event organized on 14 September 2016, in association with the 66th session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe (RC66). The event informed delegates at the Regional Committee meeting of the launch of the report of the United Nations High-Level Commission on Health Employment and Economic Growth, scheduled for 20 September 2016.
Day 4 highlights: countries commit to strengthening the use of evidence and research in policy-making 15-09-2016
On the final day of the 66th session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe, Member States adopted a European action plan to strengthen the use of evidence, information and research for policy-making. They also approved an action plan for the prevention and control of noncommunicable diseases, which complements global plans and builds on the previous regional strategy.
Day 3 highlights: agreement on women’s health strategy and action plans for HIV and viral hepatitis 14-09-2016
Dr Margaret Chan welcomed the WHO Regional Committee for Europe’s adoption of a European strategy for women’s health as well as action plans for both HIV and viral hepatitis in her plenary address, affirming the WHO European Region’s position at the forefront of global health developments.
Day 2 highlights: RC66 adopts European strategy and action plan for refugee and migrant health 13-09-2016
On the second day of the 66th session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe (RC66), Member States and partners warmly received the development of a regional roadmap to guide the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, and a strategy and action plan for refugee and migrant health in the WHO European Region.
Day 1 highlights: RC66 opens – health central to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development 12-09-2016
Her Royal Highness The Crown Princess of Denmark and the WHO Regional Director for Europe opened the 66th session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe (RC66), welcoming over 400 delegates to Copenhagen, Denmark. The overarching theme was the central role of health in “leaving no one behind” as countries embark on implementing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
First-of-its-kind training targets medicine pricing policies 11-09-2016
A summer school on pharmaceutical pricing – the first of its kind – helped train high-level civil servants in the WHO European Region in shaping and implementing policies for pricing medicines. The Austrian Health Institute, designated as the WHO Collaborating Centre for Pharmaceutical Pricing and Reimbursement Policies, organized the five-day course in collaboration with WHO/Europe. It ran from 29 August to 2 September.
WHO Europe launches new action plan for noncommunicable diseases, appeals for urgent joint policy action to achieve global goals and targets 06-09-2016
The WHO European Region has made progress in key areas of noncommunicable disease (NCD) control: death rates from cardiovascular disease (CVD) continue to decline, the clear downward trend in smoking continues, and alcohol intake is steadily decreasing. However, this overall European picture masks significant differences within and between countries and population groups; WHO/Europe estimates that the Region will fall short of the global goals of reducing tobacco use and physical inactivity and simply fail to halt the rise in obesity unless action is accelerated.
Closing of the World Health Assembly: WHO Framework for Engagement with Non-State Actors adopted 01-06-2016
The World Health Assembly has adopted the WHO Framework of Engagement with Non-State Actors (FENSA), after more than 2 years of intergovernmental negotiations.
Day 4 of the World Health Assembly: Two new strategies call for action on women's and children's health, ageing 01-06-2016
On 26 May, delegates at the World Health Assembly agreed to implement two new health strategies, both closely aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Day 3 of the World Health Assembly: New Health Emergencies Programme adopted 31-05-2016
On the third day of the Sixty-ninth World Health Assembly, WHO Member States agreed to one of the most profound transformations in the Organization's history – establishing a new health emergencies programme.
Day 2 of the World Health Assembly: Highlights for the European Region 26-05-2016
Christiana Figueres, Executive Secretary of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, addressed the World Health Assembly on 24 May 2016. She stressed the links between climate change and health, including those related to the spread of vector-borne diseases. Her address was followed by a technical briefing that underscored the need for multisectoral action for achieving the health-related Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and agreement on a new resolution on meeting those goals.
Opening day of World Health Assembly: 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development in focus 24-05-2016
WHO Director-General Dr Margaret Chan opened the Sixty-ninth World Health Assembly with words of celebration, warning and hope.Dr Chan celebrated recent progress in global public health, particularly in combating HIV, tuberculosis, malaria and poliomyelitis, as well as in improving maternal and child health. But she warned that the recent outbreaks of Ebola, MERS coronavirus, Zika and urban yellow fever signalled a "dramatic resurgence of the threat from emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases".
Member States gather for WHO's annual global meeting 23-05-2016
The Sixty-ninth World Health Assembly takes place in Geneva on 23–28 May 2016. Member States will discuss and make decisions on key health issues, including responding to health emergencies; women's, children's and adolescents' health; ageing; noncommunicable diseases; the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development; and migrant health. View all topics and learn more at the official World Health Assembly website.
Women Deliver Conference – European Region challenged as best place for women and girls 20-05-2016
"We all share a common conviction – that girls and women are the key to building healthy, prosperous and sustainable societies and communities," said Her Royal Highness the Crown Princess of Denmark, Patron of the Women Deliver Conference 2016 and Patron of WHO/Europe, at the Conference's opening ceremony. "And the evidence is sound – when we invest in girls and women, society as a whole benefits."
WHO strategy highlights challenges and way forward for women’s health 18-05-2016
Although women in the WHO European Region generally have longer life expectancy than men, they also spend more years in ill health. The quality of life and well-being they experience is often unsatisfactory and there are also health inequities within and between countries in the Region. To unlock enormous gains, reduce inequalities and achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), women and girls must be able to fully realize their right to health with a focus on gender-specific needs.
Transforming integrated health service delivery in the WHO European Region 11-05-2016
"Everything starts with people. Without people there is no health system." This sentiment was echoed in keynote presentations, illustrative country cases and expert interventions throughout the 2-day final consultation of the European Framework for Action on Integrated Health Services Delivery in discussions of entry points and processes for integrated health service delivery that took place in Copenhagen, Denmark on 2–3 May 2016.
Europe shapes new action plans on HIV/AIDS and viral hepatitis 12-04-2016
Two advisory committees met in Copenhagen, Denmark, on 4–5 April 2016 to guide new action plans on HIV/AIDS and viral hepatitis for the WHO European Region 2016–2021.
Consultation with UN agencies and other international organizations on the European strategy and action plan on refugee and migrant health 12-04-2016
14 April 2016, Copenhagen, Denmark
Towards a European strategy for women’s health 08-03-2016
Just over half of the 900 million people living in the WHO European Region (463 million) are women.
Day 4 highlights: RC65 adopts new tuberculosis action plan and closes 17-09-2015
Highlights of the final day of the 65th session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe (RC65) included adoption of the action plan, agreement on closer cooperation between WHO/Europe and the European Commission and a description of countries' experience in addressing the migration crisis in Europe.
Day 3 highlights: adoption of strategy on physical activity and roadmap for tobacco control 16-09-2015
The strategy and the roadmap for the European Region, adopted by the 65th session of the Regional Committee (RC65), will contribute to achieving the global goal of a 25% reduction in premature mortality from noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) by 2025.
European ministers of health adopt strategy to tackle physical inactivity in 53 WHO Member States 16-09-2015
WHO estimates indicate that, in Europe, more than one third of adults and two thirds of adolescents are insufficiently active. Worldwide, physical inactivity causes 6–10% of cases of coronary heart disease, diabetes and breast and colon cancer and 9% of premature mortality.
Day 2 highlights: focus continues on intersectoral action 15-09-2015
Panel discussions on the second day of the 65th session of the Regional Committee (RC65) focused on the need to work across sectors to address the health challenges of today's interconnected world. The WHO Director-General called on Member States to pay particular attention to how corporate interests influence health policy-making, asking, "Who really governs the policies that shape our health?"
Day 1 highlights: RC65 opens with emphasis on intersectoral action 14-09-2015
HRH The Crown Princess of Denmark and the WHO Regional Director for Europe opened the 65th session of the Regional Committee (RC65), recognizing intersectoral action as its overarching theme. The President of the Republic of Lithuania welcomed over 300 delegates to Vilnius.
WHO supports European countries in managing health needs of refugee and migrant influxes 14-09-2015
In response to the growing numbers of refugees and migrants arriving in the European Region, WHO supports countries by offering medical supplies, assessing national preparedness to assist people in need, training personnel at points of entry in public health and migration matters, and providing information materials.
WHO European governing body to convene in Vilnius 10-09-2015
The 65th annual session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe, the WHO European Region's governing body, will be held in Vilnius, Lithuania, on 14–17 September 2015. Over 260 delegates, including ministers of health and other policy-makers, will attend the meeting as representatives of the 53 Member States of the Region.
Stepping up action on migrant and refugee health 18-06-2015
Since June 2013, with the generous support of the Government of Italy, the WHO Regional Office for Europe has conducted many assessment missions and piloted a toolkit with ministries of health to assess how their health systems could manage large influxes of migrants. 20 June is World Refugee Day.
Executive Board discusses newborn health, mycetoma and the development and governance process for WHO guidelines 08-06-2015
The 137th session of WHO's Executive Board took place on 27–28 May 2015, after the Sixty-eighth World Health Assembly.
Final day of the World Health Assembly: highlights for the European Region 28-05-2015
The World Health Assembly closed on 26 May 2015. Three new resolutions were passed on the final day: one on air pollution, one on epilepsy and one laying out the next steps in finalizing a framework of engagement with non-State actors.
Days 5 to 7 of the World Health Assembly: highlights for the European Region 27-05-2015
Discussions continued in the drafting group on the draft decision on Ebola and follow-up to the Special session of the Executive Board on the Ebola emergency. Particular focus was given to core capacity assessment for implementation of the International Health Regulations (IHR) and to the contingency fund.
Day 4 of the World Health Assembly: highlights for the European Region 22-05-2015
Day 4 of the World Health Assembly: highlights for the European Region
Day 3 of the World Health Assembly: highlights for the European Region 21-05-2015
Day 3 of the World Health Assembly: highlights for the European Region.
Day 2 of the World Health Assembly: highlights for the European Region 20-05-2015
Day 2 of the World Health Assembly: highlights for the European Region.
New programme for health emergencies announced on first day of World Health Assembly 19-05-2015
Angela Merkel, Chancellor of Germany, addressed delegates on the first morning of the Sixty-eighth World Health Assembly. "WHO is the only international organization that has universal political legitimacy on global health issues," she said.
Zsuzsanna Jakab appointed WHO Regional Director for Europe for second term 27-01-2015
WHO’s Executive Board, currently holding its 136th session in Geneva, has appointed Dr Zsuzsanna Jakab, WHO Regional Director for Europe, for a second term. This follows her nomination in September last year by the Regional Committee for Europe, which comprises the health ministers of the Region’s 53 Member States. Dr Jakab will start her new five-year term in February 2015.
Kyrgyz initiatives help reduce preventable child mortality 08-01-2015
Several initiatives in Kyrgyzstan, such as programmes to prevent micronutrient deficiency and anaemia and to manage common childhood diseases, have contributed to a substantial decline in child mortality. Investing in children: the European child and adolescent health strategy 2015–2020, adopted in September last year, focuses on actions to address preventable death and infectious disease in children.
New Minister of Health of Lithuania visits WHO/Europe 10-11-2014
Ms Rimantė Šalaševičiūtė visited WHO/Europe for the first time on 6 November 2014 to meet with Zsuzsanna Jakab, WHO Regional Director for Europe, and other staff to discuss continued collaboration in 2014–2017 and a number of key issues
Highlights of RC64 day 4 – Ebola emergency update, food and nutrition action plan adopted, and six European progress reports discussed 18-09-2014
On its final day, the 64th session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe (RC64) enthusiastically adopted the European Food and Nutrition Action Plan 2015–2020
Europe leads the world in eliminating trans fats 18-09-2014
Consumption of trans fats is strongly associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, and has been linked to several types of cancer. A growing number of countries in the WHO European Region have recognized that taking action to eliminate trans fats may bring significant health gains, and new data indicate that such action is highly effective in reducing trans-fat consumption among the population.
Highlights of RC64 day 3 – Adoption of action plans on vaccines and prevention of child maltreatment 17-09-2014
Two far-reaching action plans – on vaccines and prevention of child maltreatment – were adopted, mapping the path for interventions in these areas until 2020.
Rising numbers of children living in poverty across Europe 17-09-2014
The number of children living in relative poverty is increasing across all Member States in the WHO European Region. The new WHO strategy – Investing in children: the European child and adolescent health strategy 2015–2020, launched today at the 64th session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe – identifies the risks for children and adolescents and outlines actions to ensure the health and well-being of all.
Highlights of RC64 day 2 – Ebola emergency and nomination of Regional Director 16-09-2014
WHO Director-General Margaret Chan described the harm done in West Africa by the Ebola outbreak, and the global lessons to be learned from the emergency. Zsuzsanna Jakab, WHO Regional Director for Europe, was nominated for a second five-year term.
Zsuzsanna Jakab nominated for second term as WHO Regional Director for Europe 16-09-2014
Ms Zsuzsanna Jakab has been nominated for a second five-year term as the Regional Director of the European Region of the World Health Organization (WHO) by the WHO Regional Committee for Europe. The Regional Committee is WHO’s governing body for the European Region, and comprises health ministers from the Region’s 53 Member States. The nomination will be submitted to the session of the WHO Executive Board to be held in January 2015 in Geneva, Switzerland. The Board is expected to confirm the nomination, after which Ms Jakab will begin a second term in office on 1 February 2015.
Highlights of day 1 – Focus on more equitable, sustainable health for Europe 15-09-2014
“Our aim will be better health for Europe, more equitable and sustainable,” said Zsuzsanna Jakab, WHO Regional Director for Europe, in her address to representatives of all 53 Member States in the WHO European Region.
WHO European Region advances health on political and social agendas: Health 2020 progress report 15-09-2014
The WHO Regional Office for Europe’s first report on progress in implementing the European health policy framework, Health 2020 demonstrates advances in health and health policy throughout the WHO European Region.
WHO European governing body set to adopt innovative public health plans and nominate regional head of agency 11-09-2014
On 15 September, the annual meeting of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe opens, bringing together representatives of the 53 Member States in the WHO European Region to take stock of what has been achieved and to decide what should be done next. During the four-day meeting, about 350 participants will consider the progress made in implementing the WHO European policy framework, Health 2020, and nominate the WHO Regional Director for Europe for a five-year term of office. The Regional Committee is also expected to endorse innovative action plans, negotiated over the last year, on some of the key public health issues in the Region: vaccination, child and adolescent health, prevention of child maltreatment, and food and nutrition.
New and updated documents available for RC64 08-09-2014
Achieving a tobacco free generation – “stopping them from starting” 04-09-2014
Finland uses a range of legislative measures to end tobacco use. Its goal is to reduce the proportion of smokers in the adult population to or below 2% by 2040. Achieving a tobacco free generation is one of the main themes of the European strategy for child and adolescent health for 2015–2020, which will be submitted to the 2014 session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe.
Sure Start – investing in early childhood 01-09-2014
Sure Start children’s centres in the United Kingdom are popular, offering families with young children a one-stop shop for advice on parenting practices, employment, social benefits and health. Supporting early childhood development is one of the main themes of the European strategy for child and adolescent health for 2015–2020, which will be submitted to the 2014 session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe.
Obesity: priority for Malta and WHO/Europe’s joint work 29-08-2014
Zsuzsanna Jakab, WHO Regional Director for Europe, and Christopher Fearne, Parliamentary Secretary for Health of Malta, signed an agreement on 26 August, establishing priorities for collaboration for 2014–2015.
Final versions of documents for RC64 now available 14-08-2014
Final versions of documents for the 64th session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe are now available for download.
Realizing our vision: Regional Director’s report 04-06-2014
The adoption of Health 2020, the European policy for health and well-being, is one of many recent achievements enabling WHO/Europe and the 53 countries it serves to respond to the changing health environment. This report documents WHO’s work in 2012–2013 to secure better health in Europe.
World Health Assembly closes: resolution on antimicrobial resistance approved 27-05-2014
The Sixty-seventh World Health Assembly closed on Saturday 24 May 2014, after adopting more than 20 resolutions on public health issues of global importance.
World Health Assembly, day 4: proposals on coordination of noncommunicable disease response 26-05-2014
The World Health Assembly approved proposals to improve global coordination of efforts to address noncommunicable diseases like diabetes, cancers, heart disease and stroke. It also approved a resolution to improve the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of viral hepatitis.
World Health Assembly, day 3: monitoring framework for maternal and child nutrition approved 23-05-2014
At the World Health Assembly on Wednesday, Member States approved a global monitoring framework on maternal, infant and young child nutrition. The WHO Secretariat was asked to develop recommendations for Member States on how to address the inappropriate marketing of complementary foods – foods for infants and young children who are still breastfed. The Secretariat was also asked to facilitate further development of the indicators described in this framework, and to convene informal consultations with Member States on tools to manage undue industry influence.
World Health Assembly, day 2: newborn health and gender-based violence on the agenda 22-05-2014
Dr Christine Kaseba-Sata, First Lady of Zambia (WHO Goodwill Ambassador against gender-based violence) and Melinda Gates, co-Chair of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, addressed delegates at the World Health Assembly this afternoon.
Childhood obesity and tuberculosis on agenda on first day of World Health Assembly 21-05-2014
The Sixty-seventh World Health Assembly, WHO’s annual global meeting of ministers and senior health officials, opened on 19 May 2014.
HIV/AIDS epidemic in Europe: HIV transmission through injecting drug use 21-05-2014
Opioid substitution therapy is one of the best ways to prevent HIV transmission among people who inject drugs. Integrating such therapy with HIV treatment and care is key to addressing the HIV epidemic effectively.
New global report: depression predominant cause of illness and disability among adolescents 14-05-2014
The report reveals that depression is the predominant cause of illness and disability for both boys and girls aged 10 to 19 years, so it recommends key actions to strengthen the ways countries respond to adolescents’ physical and mental health needs.
Denmark’s health minister visits WHO/Europe 05-05-2014
Nick Hækkerup, recently appointed Minister of Health of Denmark, visited WHO/Europe on 2 May 2014. The Minister met Zsuzsanna Jakab, WHO Regional Director for Europe, who introduced him to the work of the Regional Office. Discussions focused on preparations and progress towards the sixty-fourth session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe, to be held in Copenhagen, Denmark on 15-18 September 2014.
HIV/AIDS epidemic in Europe: progress on testing and counselling 30-04-2014
In September, WHO/Europe will report on progress in implementing the European Action Plan for HIV/AIDS 2012–2015. Each month until then, we highlight a specific area of the Action Plan – beginning with HIV testing and counselling.
Intensive, productive Regional Committee closes: countries focused on implementation of new health policy framework 20-09-2013
The WHO Regional Committee for Europe, the decision-making body for the WHO European Region, wrapped up its sixty-third session today. Led by ministers and high-level representatives, European countries reached important agreements on a number of key public health issues and the technical and administrative work of the WHO Regional Office for Europe. More than 300 people from 51 Member States in the WHO European Region, international partners and nongovernmental organizations, along with observers, attended the session, which took place on 16–19 September 2013 in Çeşme Izmir, Turkey.
Regional Committee: Highlights of Day 4 19-09-2013
On the final day of the sixty-third session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe, Member States adopted the European Action Plan on Mental Health. A total of 11 resolutions and 2 decisions were adopted at this year’s session.
Psychiatric services not meeting demand – reform needed 19-09-2013
Across the WHO European Region, about 30% of years lived with disability can be attributed to mental disorders, but fewer than 50% of people with a mental disorder have ever received any kind of treatment and even fewer (10%) receive adequate care. This massive unmet need for treatment – the treatment gap – is the result of a combination of the stigma of mental health and mental health services, lack of accessibility and, when services are available, poor quality. Many people are reluctant to go for help owing to the fear associated with mental disorders and a lack of trust in the quality and effectiveness of treatment and care offered by mental health services.
Regional Committee: Highlights of Day 3 18-09-2013
Today the Regional Committee agreed on a regional framework for the surveillance and control of vector-borne diseases such as dengue and chikungunya fever, and welcomed the signing of a Joint Framework Agreement between WHO, the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA).
Regional Committee: Highlights of Day 2 17-09-2013
Today the Regional Committee adopted 20 core indicators to measure Health 2020 targets, as well as reporting on national developments towards its implementation.
WHO report draws attention to the abuse of 18 million children 17-09-2013
Over 18 million children aged under 18 years suffer from maltreatment in the WHO European Region. Published in a new report from the WHO Regional Office for Europe, European report on preventing child maltreatment , these figures are a concern for any policy-maker implementing Health 2020, the new European health policy framework.
Health 2020 becoming reality 17-09-2013
Many Member States are now taking up the Health 2020 challenge, reflecting a clear and growing interest in implementing the Health 2020 policy framework in the WHO European Region. At the sixty-third session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe, some 300 assembled ministers and stakeholders renewed their commitment to Health 2020. In addition to this, a high-level panel of ministers and delegates shared their plans and experience of implementing the Health 2020 vision within their own countries.
Regional Committee: Highlights of Day 1 16-09-2013
The sixty-third session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe was opened by the outgoing Executive President of the Regional Committee, Dr Lars-Erik Holm, and began with Dr Mehmet Müezzinoğlu, Minister of Health of Turkey welcoming ministers and delegates from 51 Member States in the WHO European Region.
Report card for health in Europe: significant progress made, more work needed 16-09-2013
The health of people living in the WHO European Region today is better than ever before. Significant advances have been made recently in specific health areas. Yet despite being a Region rich in knowledge and innovation, and with a long history of public health, not every one of the 900 million people in the Region enjoys the highest possible level of health, and health inequalities threaten further progress.
Regional Committee opens in Turkey 16-09-2013
Health ministers and senior officials from 51 Member States in the WHO European Region are in Çeşme Izmir, Turkey, on 16–19 September 2013 for the sixty-third session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe.
Twice as many years lost due to ill health or premature death in low- and middle-income countries in Europe 12-09-2013
Despite significant progress in life expectancy in recent decades (an overall increase of 5 years over the past 30 years to 76 years on average), WHO data on disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs) show a more complex picture of health, with inequalities across the 53 countries in the WHO European Region. According to the 2012 European health report, on average, low- and middle-income countries lose twice as many years to ill health or premature death as high-income countries in the Region.
Identifying targets and indicators for monitoring Health 2020: results of regional consultation published 03-09-2013
A new WHO/Europe report, “Regional consultation on targets and indicators for Health 2020 monitoring: report of results”, outlines the work done by WHO-convened groups of technical experts to develop core and additional sets of indicators to measure progress in reaching the six Health 2020 targets.
Mental health on agenda at World Health Assembly simulation 16-08-2013
Neurodegenerative disorders such as dementia and Alzheimer’s should be in greater focus, according to students and young professionals from around the globe taking part in the Nordic World Health Organization (NorWHO) simulation on 7–10 August in Copenhagen, Denmark. The conference aimed to give participants the experience of being WHO delegates in a World Health Assembly set up, with mental health on the agenda.
World Health Assembly closes 29-05-2013
Resolutions on a global action plan for noncommunicable diseases, health in the post-2015 development agenda, neglected tropical diseases, and standardization and interoperability of e-health were approved on the final day of the Sixty-sixth World Health Assembly.
World Health Assembly, days 5–7: International Health Regulations and research and development for health on agenda 28-05-2013
The International Health Regulations and research and development for health were in focus at the World Health Assembly on 24–26 May 2013. Resolutions on the global mental health action plan and on disability were also adopted.
World Health Assembly, day 4: disability, development and universal health coverage on agenda 27-05-2013
On 23 May 2013, World Health Assembly discussions covered the health sector’s contribution to the upcoming high-level meeting of the General Assembly on disability and development, to be held on 23 September 2013 in New York.
World Health Assembly, day 3: progress on health-related Millennium Development Goals and Global Fund’s new funding model 24-05-2013
At a technical briefing on 22 May 2013, Dr Margaret Chan, WHO Director-General, applauded the contribution made by the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria to turning back the epidemic of these diseases. Health in the post-2015 development agenda and an action plan on mental health were also on the agenda on day 3 of the World Health Assembly.
World Health Assembly, day 2: General Programme of Work for next 6 years approved 23-05-2013
The World Health Assembly approved a resolution on the General Programme of Work and changes to the financial regulations and rules on 21 May 2013.
Post-2015 development agenda in focus on first day of World Health Assembly 21-05-2013
The Sixty-fifth World Health Assembly, WHO’s annual global meeting of ministers and senior health officials, opened on 20 May. It will discuss a draft global action plan for noncommunicable diseases, as well as action plans on mental health and the prevention of avoidable blindness and visual impairment.
WHO/Europe in Copenhagen moving to new premises 05-04-2013
WHO/Europe’s head office, based in Copenhagen, Denmark, is moving to new premises during 22 March to 1 April 2013. All United Nations organizations in the Danish capital will come together in new premises known as UN City.
Third session of Twentieth Standing Committee 05-04-2013
Discussions at the third session of the Twentieth Standing Committee of the Regional Committee for Europe focused on preparations for the sixty-third session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe, to be held in Cesme, Izmir, Turkey on 16–19 September 2013.
Turkey to host the sixty-third session of WHO Regional Committee for Europe 29-01-2013
Turkey will host the sixty-third session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe in the city of Izmir on 16–19 September 2013. The session was originally planned to be held in Portugal.
Benefits of decentralized WHO outweigh challenges 25-01-2013
The benefits of decentralization in WHO outweigh the associated challenges, high-level participants in a recent workshop on the topic agreed. Organized by the German Federal Ministry of Health with the German Permanent Missions in Geneva, the workshop took place on 21 January 2013.
Key WHO/Europe events in 2013 15-01-2013
Following the adoption of Health 2020, the European policy for health and well-being, in September 2012 and building on past resolutions and collaborative work, WHO/Europe plans many activities, campaigns and events in 2013.
Standing Committee meets in Bulgaria 30-11-2012
At its second session in Sofia, Bulgaria, the Twentieth Standing Committee of the Regional Committee for Europe (SCRC) discussed technical and policy items for the next Regional Committee session, in September 2013. In addition, Zsuzsanna Jakab, WHO Regional Director for Europe, met Rosen Plevneliev, President of Bulgaria to discuss future health development in the country.
Key findings of consultation on monitoring noncommunicable diseases released 18-09-2012
As part of the development of a comprehensive global monitoring framework for noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), WHO/Europe held a web-based consultation to determine European Member States’ capacity to monitor the proposed voluntary targets and global indicators.
Regional Committee: Highlights of Day 4 13-09-2012
On the final day of the 62nd session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe the WHO Member States adopted the Strategy and Action Plan for Healthy Ageing in Europe, 2012-2020 (discussed on Day 3), and the European Action Plan for Strengthening Public Health Capacities and Services.
Regional Committee: Highlights of Day 3 12-09-2012
Today, the WHO European Region adopted the Health 2020 policy framework. Discussions on the third day of the sixty-second session of the Regional Committee for Europe focused on WHO reform, and ended with the Strategy and Action Plan for Healthy Ageing in Europe 2012–2020.
Health ministers adopt European policy for health and well-being 12-09-2012
Today the WHO European Region adopted a sustainable policy to protect and promote the health of its 900 million citizens, particularly the most vulnerable. The comprehensive new policy, called Health 2020, was endorsed by the WHO Regional Committee for Europe, WHO’s governing body for the Region, during its meeting in Malta.
Regional Committee: Highlights of Day 2 11-09-2012
Following an address by Margaret Chan, WHO Director-General, that reflected on the global development agenda after 2015, debate on the second day of the 62nd session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe has been dominated by Health 2020 and its evidence base.
Regional Committee: Highlights of Day 1 10-09-2012
The sixty-second session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe was opened by the outgoing president of the Regional Committee Professor Ogtay Shiraliyev, Minister of Health of Azerbaijan, and began with Lawrence Gonzi, Prime Minister of Malta welcoming delegates, followed by an address by Her Royal Highness Crown Princess Mary of Denmark, Patron of the WHO Regional Office for Europe.
Regional Committee opens on Monday in Malta 09-09-2012
Ministers and representatives from 52 countries in the WHO European Region are in Malta from 10-13 September 2012 for the sixty-second session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe.The session is being webcast and covered on Twitter (#RC62Malta).
53 countries to set new European health roadmap for 2020 and beyond 07-09-2012
Health ministers and senior officials from the 53 countries in the WHO European Region are gathering in Malta next week to vote on an ambitious long-term WHO European policy for health and well-being, Health 2020.
Regional Director briefs United Nations agencies and European ambassadors on the agenda of this year’s annual meeting 03-09-2012
Ms Zsuzsanna Jakab, WHO Regional Director for Europe, briefed permanent missions to the United Nations in Geneva, and European ambassadors to Denmark and representatives of United Nations agencies in Copenhagen, on the health issues to be discussed by the sixty-second session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe, taking place in Malta on 10–13 September 2012.
United Nations Secretary-General visits sustainable development project in Serbia 08-08-2012
As part of his tour of south-eastern Europe, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon visited Belgrade, Serbia on 23–24 July 2012. The visit included meeting people at the "Dr Olga Hadži Antonović'' Daycare Centre for Children and Youth with Autism, and a WHO-supported project for sustainable handling of waste.
Report published: Third meeting of the European Health Policy Forum of High-Level Government Officials 31-07-2012
The report of the Third meeting of the European Health Policy Forum of High-Level Government Officials, that took place in Brussels, Belgium on 19–20 April 2012 is now available.
Director-General begins second term, releases report on first term 02-07-2012
Dr Margaret Chan, WHO Director-General, began her second term on 1 July 2012. Read her assessment of the achievements, setbacks and remaining health challenges.
World Health Assembly, closing: 21 resolutions adopted during the week 29-05-2012
The Sixty-fifth World Health Assembly concluded after adopting 21 resolutions on a broad range of health issues including: early marriages and pregnancies, humanitarian emergencies, the International Health Regulations, mass gatherings, the Millennium Development Goals, noncommunicable diseases, occupied Palestinian territory, pandemic influenza preparedness, intensification of the global polio eradication initiative, research and development, schistosomiasis, the social determinants of health and substandard/spurious/falsely labelled/falsified/counterfeit medical products.
World Health Assembly, day 4: support for WHO reform 25-05-2012
On day four of the World Health Assembly, countries discussed and expressed broad support for proposals to reform WHO in three areas: programmes and priority setting, governance and management.
World Health Assembly, day 3: WHO Director-General reappointed 24-05-2012
The Health Assembly yesterday appointed Dr Margaret Chan to a second five-year term as Director-General. In her acceptance speech to health ministers and representatives of WHO’s Member States, Dr Chan pledged continued commitment to improving the health of the most vulnerable.
World Health Assembly, day 2: resolution on noncommunicable diseases approved 24-05-2012
A resolution on strengthening noncommunicable disease policies to promote active ageing was approved by countries on the second day of WHO’s global annual meeting.
Standing Committee: “Good progress in preparations for RC62” 23-05-2012
The Nineteenth Standing Committee of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe (SCRC) held its fourth session at WHO headquarters in Geneva on 19 and 20 May 2012.
First day of World Health Assembly focuses on universal health-care coverage 22-05-2012
The Sixty-fifth World Health Assembly, WHO’s annual global meeting of ministers and senior health officials, opened yesterday. In her opening address, Margaret Chan, WHO Director-General, emphasized the importance of universal coverage.
Forum finalizes Health 2020 policy framework 23-04-2012
The third meeting of the European Health Policy Forum of High-level Government Officials took place in Brussels, Belgium on 19–20 April 2012. The Forum advised WHO/Europe on the final shape of the Health 2020 policy framework and three other key documents that will be submitted to the WHO Regional Committee for Europe in September 2012.
Margaret Chan, WHO Director-General, nominated for second term 19-01-2012
Yesterday, WHO’s Executive Board nominated Dr Chan for a second term as Director-General. The nomination will be submitted for approval to the Sixty-fifth World Health Assembly.
Key WHO/Europe events in 2012 06-01-2012
Building on the momentum of resolutions and collaborative work in previous years, WHO/Europe plans many activities and events in 2012.
Regional Committee: 15 September 2011 15-09-2011
The final day of this year’s session of the Regional Committee for Europe was marked by the adoption of five action plans on addressing noncommunicable diseases, alcohol, HIV/AIDS, drug-resistant tuberculosis and antibiotic resistance.
Europe fights back: WHO’s new action plan tackles antibiotic resistance 15-09-2011
Today, in Baku, Azerbaijan, at the WHO Regional Committee for Europe, 53 countries will discuss adopting a new European strategic action plan on antibiotic resistance. Developed by the WHO Regional Office for Europe following extensive consultation with experts and policy-makers and based on the latest research, the action plan builds on the momentum created by World Health Day 2011, with its slogan of “No action today, no cure tomorrow”.
Regional Committee: 14 September 2011 14-09-2011
Today, countries expressed their support for WHO reform and discussed how to advance this process. An action plan to tackle noncommunicable diseases was also on the agenda.
Regional Committee: 13 September 2011 13-09-2011
The development of Health 2020, and how to strengthen health systems dominated discussions today. In her address, the WHO Director-General underlined WHO’s continuing relevance as “a global health guardian, a protector and defender of health, including the right to health.”
Regional Committee: 12 September 2011 12-09-2011
Following an introduction by Ilham Aliyev, President of Azerbaijan, to the country’s health reforms, Zsuzsanna Jakab, WHO Regional Director for Europe, detailed recent achievements and remaining health challenges facing the Region. Discussion focused on how to develop the new European health policy, Health 2020.
Regional Committee opens in Azerbaijan 11-09-2011
Ministers and representatives from the 53 countries in the WHO European Region are in Baku, Azerbaijan from 12-15 September 2010 for the sixty-first session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe.
European ambassadors briefed on Regional Committee’s ambitious agenda 01-09-2011
Ms Zsuzsanna Jakab, WHO Regional Director for Europe, briefed European ambassadors to Denmark on Tuesday this week on the ambitious agenda for the sixty-first session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe.
Invitation to press to attend 61st session of the Regional Committee for Europe 23-08-2011
The sixty-first session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe, WHO’s governing body for the Region, will take place in Baku, Azerbaijan on 12–15 September 2011. Health ministers and high-level policy-makers from the 53 Member States in the Region, from Iceland and Ireland to Israel and Uzbekistan, will be joined by representatives of partner organizations and civil society. This is a unique opportunity to meet the European health community as it makes decisions, and to report from a country that very few journalists cover.
Documents now available for the sixty-first session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe, Baku, Azerbaijan, 12–15 September 2011 08-08-2011
The official documentation of the session is available in English, French, German and Russian on this site as soon as it becomes available or, at the latest, from the first week of August.
25th anniversary of the Ottawa Charter: request for memories 26-07-2011
The Ottawa Charter for Health Promotion, adopted in 1986, changed the perception of public health issues. WHO/Europe has established a discussion forum for the sharing of materials and memories, and welcomes your contributions.
World Health Assembly closes with European priorities on action agenda 25-05-2011
The Sixty-fourth World Health Assembly closed on Tuesday, after working for 8 days through a broad agenda that yielded 28 resolutions on global health matters, many of which have high priority in the European Region.
World Health Assembly: Delegates discuss noncommunicable diseases, WHO finances, pandemic influenza preparedness 24-05-2011
During the third and fourth days of the World Health Assembly (18–19 May), Member States discussed a range of issues, including noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), the programme budget and the future of financing for WHO, health conditions in the occupied Palestinian territory, pandemic influenza preparedness and the promotion of women’s and children’s health.
Day 2 of World Health Assembly: International Health Regulations and WHO reform in focus 18-05-2011
Countries agreed that the International Health Regulations have been valuable and effective so far, and many pledged strong support for the Director-General’s proposal to reform WHO, at the World Health Assembly yesterday.
Opening of World Health Assembly: Director-General urges ministers to “remember the people” 17-05-2011
The Sixty-fourth World Health Assembly, WHO’s global annual meeting for ministers and senior health officials, opened yesterday.
Agenda set for next Regional Committee 17-05-2011
The Eighteenth Standing Committee of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe, meeting on 14–15 May 2011, discussed arrangements for the next annual meeting of WHO Member States in the European Region, to take place in Baku, Azerbaijan in September.
Next Standing Committee meeting open to all Member States 11-05-2011
The Eighteenth Standing Committee of the Regional Committee (SCRC) will hold its fourth session at WHO headquarters on 14–15 May 2011. All Member States in the WHO European Region have been invited to attend as observers.
WHO/Europe’s Standing Committee gives green light to agenda for next annual meeting 01-04-2011
WHO/Europe’s Standing Committee gives green light to agenda for next annual meeting. The eighteenth Standing Committee of the Regional Committee (SCRC), WHO/Europe’s advisory board between its annual meetings of Member States, held its third session on 30–31 March 2011 to prepare for the next annual meeting.
Regional Director on official visit to Azerbaijan 02-03-2011
Ms Zsuzsanna Jakab, WHO Regional Director for Europe has been in Azerbaijan this week to discuss cooperation with the Ministry of Health, and develop plans for the annual meeting of WHO/Europe’s governing body, to be held in the country in September 2011.
Azerbaijan to host WHO European governing body meeting 01-03-2011
Zsuzsanna Jakab, WHO Regional Director for Europe, is in Baku for an official visit to Azerbaijan to reinforce commitments and facilitate preparations for the annual session of WHO’s Regional Committee for Europe, which will take place in Baku on 12–15 September 2011.
Developing strategy on antibacterial resistance 18-11-2010
The Standing Committee of the Regional Committee, part of WHO/Europe’s governing body, has approved a concept paper on WHO/Europe’s developing a strategy to contain antibacterial resistance . This is an important step to tackle a growing health threat in the WHO European Region.
Standing Committee of the Regional Committee meets in Andorra 18-11-2010
On 18–19 November 2010, the Eighteenth Standing Committee holds its second meeting, hosted by Andorra.
Regional Committee: 16 September 2010 17-09-2010
The goal of eliminating measles and rubella in the WHO European Region by 2015 and this year’s session report were both approved on the final day of WHO/Europe’s annual meeting.
Regional Committee: 15 September 2010 15-09-2010
The health situation in Pakistan following catastrophic flooding, WHO funding, and the polio outbreak in the European Region were on the agenda on the third day of WHO/Europe’s annual meeting.
Regional Committee: 14 September 2010 14-09-2010
WHO Director-General, Margaret Chan called for public health to be “smart, strategic and resourceful” during her address, and three ministerial panels discussed developing and implementing health-related policies on the second day of WHO/Europe’s annual meeting.
Regional Committee: 13 September 2010 13-09-2010
Support for a new European health policy, an address by Prime Minister Vladimir Putin, and commitment to closer collaboration with the European Commission were highlights on the first day of WHO/Europe’s annual conference.
WHO and European Commission adopt joint declaration 13-09-2010
The WHO Regional Office for Europe and the European Commission adopted a joint declaration today, seeking to strengthen policy dialogue and technical cooperation on public health.
WHO Regional Committee for Europe opens 13-09-2010
Ministers and representatives from the 53 countries in the European Region meet in Moscow, Russian Federation for the sixtieth session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe.
Addendum: EUR/RC60/12 Add. 1 Partnerships for health in the European Region (Working document) 11-09-2010
Annex 2 to document EUR/RC60/12, entitled “European Commission and WHO Regional Office for Europe: A shared vision for joint action” was developed jointly by the WHO Secretariat and the European Commission.
Revised: EUR/RC60/Conf.Doc./6 Partnerships for health in the WHO European Region (Conference document) 11-09-2010
Partnerships for health in the WHO European Region
WHO Regional Committee for Europe to convene in Moscow 10-09-2010
Health ministers and decision-makers from 53 countries will lay ground for a new pan-European health policy.
Russian Federation: no remaining health risks from extreme heat-wave and wildfires 03-09-2010
The exceptional situation of a severe heat-wave and air pollution due to wildfires in many regions of the Russian Federation has been declared over.
Information for participants 29-06-2010
Participant guide, hotel, visa information etc.
The session on elections and nominations to WHO bodies and committees 29-06-2010
The session on elections and nominations to WHO bodies and committees will be held on the afternoon of Wednesday, 15 September 2010.
Preparations on track for WHO/Europe’s annual meeting 15-06-2010
The Seventeenth Standing Committee of the Regional Committee held its fifth session on 14–15 June 2010, to prepare for the sixtieth session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe, taking place in September 2010.
Resolutions adopted by WHO Regional Committee 21-09-2009
The fifty-ninth session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe has closed. Resolutions were adopted on the nomination of the next Regional Director for Europe, health in times of global economic crisis, health workforce policies and implementation of the International Health Regulations (2005).
New WHO Regional Director for Europe nominated 15-09-2009
Zsuzsanna Jakab, a national of Hungary, has been nominated as the next WHO Regional Director for Europe. Mrs Jakab is currently Director of the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control. She will take up her new role when Dr Marc Danzon’s tenure as Regional Director ends in January 2010. The nomination is subject to confirmation by the WHO Executive Board.
WHO Regional Committee for Europe meets this week 14-09-2009
The Regional Committee holds its fifty-ninth annual session in Copenhagen, Denmark on 14–17 September. Health ministers and officials from the 53 Member States in the WHO European Region will discuss issues including pandemic (H1N1) 2009 influenza and the economic crisis. They will also nominate a new WHO Regional Director for Europe.