World Health Day

In 1948, the First World Health Assembly called for the creation of a World Health Day to mark the founding of WHO. Since 1950, World Health Day has been celebrated every year on 7 April with a different theme. Each theme reflects a priority area of current concern to WHO. The Day launches longer-term advocacy programmes that continue well beyond 7 April.

World Health Day is a worldwide opportunity to focus on key public health issues. WHO/Europe contributes by highlighting activities and analysis on the chosen theme from and about the Member States of the WHO European Region, and WHO/Europe country offices hold special events to draw attention to the theme and foster debate among policy-makers and other stakeholders.