Better governance

Strategic objective 2: Improving leadership and participatory governance for health

Innovation, leadership and capacity for health and development

Innovation and leadership for health and health equity are at the core of Health 2020. These can come from many stakeholders as they take on new responsibility and accountability for population health.

The policy framework identifies ways in which new collaborative leadership can use innovative approaches to deal with behavioural determinants, the environment, health care, advocacy and the networking needed to bring many partners together and mobilize broad-based political and cultural support for equitable, sustainable and accountable approaches to health development.

It also details how to motivate and assist people, organizations, communities and countries to manage and adapt effectively to changing environments; facilitate the development of local capacities; and effectively challenge groups whose activities are detrimental to the public’s health.

Citizens’ empowerment

Effective partnerships with citizens and communities, as well as with public and private stakeholders, are essential to gain insights into what affects health at the local level, winning support for action at the grassroots and contributing to community development.

The empowerment of citizens and patients is a key element in improving health outcomes, health systems’ performance and satisfaction. They can advocate for healthier policies in all sectors, reduce the use of health services and health care costs, encourage better communication between patient and health professionals, and promote better adherence to treatment regimens.

The results will be better life expectancy, more control over diseases, increased self-esteem, greater inclusion in society and improved quality of life. To this end, all elements of society are seen as responsible and accountable for health, as a vital part of a rejuvenated public health function.