2016: the WHO European Region's year in review

Throughout 2016 the WHO European Region has faced some significant challenges – such as the refugee and migrant crisis, protracted emergencies, outbreaks of communicable diseases and ongoing epidemics of noncommunicable diseases, which continue to strain health systems. Amid these issues, however, the countries in the Region have also come together to achieve tremendous progress, in terms of both developing strong health policies to guide future action and reaching public health milestones.

Here is a look at the year in review, highlighting achievements and progress, as well as important stories that spurred WHO/Europe and Member States to take urgent action on health issues. WHO/Europe looks forward to enhancing its work with countries and partners in 2017. While much remains to be done, 2016 has put the Region on a path towards realizing the goal of better, more equitable health for all, in keeping with Health 2020 and the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda.