Bosnia and Herzegovina

In collaboration with health authorities in Bosnia and Herzegovina, the WHO Country Office organized a press conference and celebration to mark World Health Day 2012. The events were held in Banja Luka on 5 April with representatives of the Ministry of Civil Affairs of Bosnia and Herzegovina, the Ministry of Health of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare of the Republika Srpska, Department of Health of the Brcko District of Bosnia and Herzegovina, international organizations and WHO partners working in the health sector.

The press conference was attended by reporters from all major printed and electronic media in Bosnia and Herzegovina. This provided an opportunity to draw attention to population ageing and underline the importance of taking appropriate actions to address the associated challenges. The Country Office and government authorities also announced various other activities planned in Bosnia and Herzegovina to celebrate World Health Day.

Government action needed to help people stay healthy and active

This year, World Health Day was organized under the slogan "Good health adds life to years", and was dedicated to public health aspects of healthy ageing. The global demographic picture is rapidly changing, whereby the older population outbalances the youngest population categories in many societies. It is of major importance that these processes are recognized and attended to by respective governments, particularly authorities in the health and social sectors. Together various sectors and actors need to create environments in which older people are valued as a social resource, can participate as active members of society, and are helped to live as healthily as possible.
 
At the press conference, policy-makers were presented with some crucial generic questions to consider in their discussions and future policy interventions. These focused on the nature and level of support needed to help the ageing population remain healthy, active and independent as well as on opportunities to reduce the potential financial burden of ill-health among older people. A particular challenge is to ensure full participation and validation of the efforts of all segments of society, including families, in the care and support provided to the older population.