News

First perinatal mortality audit in North Macedonia reveals gaps in the health system and suggests ways to address them 27-01-2021
The results of the first perinatal mortality audit in North Macedonia, released today, highlight areas that need to be addressed in order to improve the care for mothers and their infants during pregnancy, childbirth and the neonatal period. This audit, conducted in 2019, provides important insights and evidence-based recommendations that can be used both to address system errors and barriers and to identify and praise points of strength.
Albania upgrades its cervical cancer screening programme with WHO’s support 17-11-2020
On 17 November 2020, WHO is launching the Global Strategy to Accelerate the Elimination of Cervical Cancer. To mark this event, we look at Albania’s success story of cervical cancer screening. Cervical cancer is the second most common type of cancer among women of reproductive age in Albania, affecting 134 new women each year. Yet cervical cancer is preventable through human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination and screening. With WHO’s support, the country took action by setting up a national screening programme.
On the path to better sexual and reproductive health services for adolescents in Kazakhstan 21-10-2020
Despite the high political priority given to the health of women, children and adolescents in Kazakhstan, gaps exist in the delivery of health services to young people, according to a new report from WHO/Europe. The COVID-19 epidemic in the country has accentuated some of these challenges and has pressed health professionals to find new ways of providing much needed health services to adolescents.
WHO assessment shows sexual and reproductive health must be given higher priority to achieve health for all 16-10-2020
WHO country assessments on sexual, reproductive, maternal, newborn, child and adolescent health from Albania, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, the Republic of Moldova and Romania show that several areas and interventions are lagging behind on the path to universal health coverage (UHC). Further country assessments are in development for Tajikistan, Uzbekistan and Greece.
Bringing sexual and reproductive health services to young people across the Republic of Moldova 15-10-2020
Unprecedented work has been undertaken in the Republic of Moldova to ensure that adolescents can access sexual and reproductive health services, following a systematic process outlined by WHO.
Follow WHO’s online film festival throughout October 12-10-2020
WHO is holding an online film festival showcasing some of the entrants from the inaugural Health for All Film Festival. From 10 to 24 October 2020, films will be shown on WHO’s YouTube channel with the option to ask questions via live chat.
Self-testing for HIV at home – successful project in Bulgaria 18-09-2020
A demonstration project conducted in Bulgaria has shown that more people get tested for HIV when self-testing is available. In situations where testing is based in health-care institutions, it can be a challenge to encourage some people to come forward. Community-based testing is a good way to overcome those barriers, but it can be labour intensive. Self-testing can work out less expensive, and a demonstration project conducted last year clearly shows the role it can play. The findings are especially relevant to health authorities working hard to maintain essential services during the COVID-19 pandemic.
New WHO tools to support health-care workers promoting breastfeeding in Europe 06-08-2020
During this year’s World Breastfeeding Week, WHO launched 3 new tools that will make it easier for health-care providers to support and promote breastfeeding to become a regular and popular practice. The publications will be especially useful for the WHO European Region, which is the WHO region with the lowest levels of exclusive breastfeeding.
Coronavirus and pregnancy – preserving maternal health across the European Region 30-06-2020
The COVID-19 pandemic has pushed many health systems to the brink, resulting in non-urgent care being deprioritized to make way for thousands of COVID-19 patients. However, there are some areas that cannot wait, and one of them is maternal health.
Supporting Greece in improving equitable access to SRMNCAH services 20-03-2020
To support Greece in achieving universal health coverage (UHC), WHO has been conducting an assessment of the country’s sexual, reproductive, maternal, newborn, child and adolescent health (SRMNCAH) services. The findings of the assessment will identify potential barriers and inform feasible and practical options and policy recommendations for Greece to improve in these areas. This in turn will contribute to achieving UHC, so that all people have access to the health services they need, when and where they need them, without incurring financial hardship.
Where do we stand on women’s health in 2020? 06-03-2020
This year marks 25 years since countries committed to intensify their efforts towards women’s empowerment and gender equality through the Beijing Platform for Action. Today, we mark International Women’s Day 2020 and focus attention on the impact of gender equality on women’s health in the WHO European Region throughout their lives.
Lauren Marie Grech – from student to fully fledged midwife 06-03-2020
Today, Lauren is a certified midwife working at Msida’s Mater Dei Hospital. She remembers with pride when she graduated and first donned her official midwife uniform. “With it came more autonomy and more responsibility. I remember thinking, ‘This is it, this is the real deal,’” recalls the 24-year-old.
Orange the World: 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-based Violence 22-11-2019
The international campaign “16 days of Activism against Gender-based Violence” starts on 25 November 2019, International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, and will continue until 10 December 2019, Human Rights Day. Under this year’s theme, “Orange the World: Generation Equality Stands against Rape” the campaign focuses on the issue of rape as a specific form of harm committed against women and girls in times of peace or war. WHO is calling for more action to prevent and end violence against women.
Stories from the field – helping migrants to help themselves through health literacy 19-09-2019
After working as an assistant nurse and social worker in Sweden for more than 10 years, Noorihe Halimi now teaches recently arrived migrants how to make their way through the intricacies of the state health-care system.
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.
Primary health care helps extend sexual and reproductive health services in North Macedonia 05-04-2019
A major part of WHO’s work in the coming years will be supporting countries in moving towards universal health coverage, as part of an ambitious plan designed to help achieve the Sustainable Development Goals. Such efforts will not be complete without ensuring that people everywhere have access to sexual and reproductive health information and services. In North Macedonia, where patients have faced challenges in getting access to modern contraception, primary health care has been used as an important vehicle to extend the benefits of sexual and reproductive health.
Experts address alarming increase in caesarean sections at meeting in Tbilisi, Georgia 21-12-2018
Member States, policy-makers and experts from 19 countries gathered at a WHO meeting in Tbilisi, Georgia, to agree on how to reduce unnecessary caesarean sections (C-sections) in the WHO European Region.
Tackling the taboo of menstrual hygiene in the European Region 08-11-2018
Globally, 52% of women and girls are of reproductive age – around 1.9 billion people. Yet, a massive taboo and stigma still surrounds the topic of menstruation, and it is often difficult for girls and women in many countries and regions to practice optimal menstrual hygiene. WHO/Europe has been working with Member States to better understand the magnitude of the problem and to support the development of policies to tackle the inequality surrounding menstrual hygiene management (MHM).
Lancet: further action needed to realise full health potential of European children and adolescents 01-11-2018
A health policy article based on the WHO progress report “Situation of child and adolescent health in Europe” has been published in the Lancet today. The article assesses the situation in the WHO European Region by summarizing national gains and highlighting areas for further action.
New WHO progress report reveals the major health challenges currently facing children and adolescents in Europe 18-09-2018
The latest WHO progress report “Situation of child and adolescent health in Europe” gives an overview of child and adolescent health in the WHO European Region, revealing a number of issues of concern.
Implementing the Action plan for sexual and reproductive health – how policies can make a real difference 10-09-2018
When national and regional experts in sexual and reproductive health from 21 countries met in Stockholm, Sweden, on 30–31 August 2018, a success story from Portugal illustrated how policy changes in this area can make a huge difference.
Q&A: Transforming the health system for better antenatal care in Georgia 22-08-2018
Georgia is playing an important role in eastern Europe and central Asia as one of the first countries to implement the WHO antenatal care recommendations, which were developed based on evidence gathered during the last 15 years.
International Youth Day: Safe spaces for healthy adolescents 10-08-2018
On 12 August, the world marks International Youth Day, with “safe spaces for youth” as the theme. Young people in the WHO European Region are healthier than ever before; however, many challenges still remain. Ensuring safe spaces during this important period of change is a critical step towards creating positive experiences for youth that encourage healthy lifestyles.
European Development Days – leaders put gender equality at the heart of the development agenda 21-06-2018
World leaders gathered in Brussels, Belgium, for the 12th annual European Development Days conference on 5–6 June 2018. They emphasized the importance of empowering girls and women in all areas of life to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Republic of Moldova becomes one of the Region’s first countries to adopt a national programme on sexual and reproductive health and rights 07-06-2018
The Republic of Moldova launched the new National Programme on Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights 2018–2022 (SRHR Programme) on 24 May 2018 in Chisinau, becoming one of the first countries in the WHO European Region to adopt such a national programme. The provisions of the document and the joint implementation mechanism were discussed during a large policy dialogue organized by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Social Protection in partnership with WHO and the United Nations Population Fund.
New publication to support training of sexuality educators released 19-03-2018
The German Federal Centre for Health Education (BZgA), a WHO collaborating centre for sexual and reproductive health, has released a new publication dedicated to the competencies and training of sexuality educators.
Group of experts assess prevention and treatment of cervical cancer in Romania 24-11-2017
At the invitation of the Romanian Ministry of Health, cancer experts from WHO and the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) visited Romania in June 2017 to assess the prevention and treatment of cervical cancer in the country.
Prenatal classes in Georgia turn pregnancy into a life-course opportunity for health 01-08-2017
“The establishment of classes for pregnant women and future parents changed prenatal services in Georgia. We found we needed fewer epidurals and caesarean sections (C-sections) on demand, and the number of complications decreased,” says Tinatin Gagua, gynaecologist and head of an antenatal care clinic in Tbilisi, Georgia. “I strongly believe that an informed patient is a better patient.”
Achievements and challenges in improving sexuality education discussed at SE:LFIE 26-05-2017
On 15–16 May 2017, the German Federal Centre for Health Education (BZgA), a WHO Collaborating Centre for Sexual and Reproductive Health, hosted the international conference “Sexuality Education: Lessons Learned and Future Developments in the WHO European Region (SE:LFIE)”. Held in Berlin, the conference was organized by BZgA, supported by the German Federal Ministry of Health and the Federal Ministry for Family Affairs, Senior Citizens, Women and Youth.
Georgia hosts meeting on improving antenatal care in eastern Europe and central Asia 02-05-2017
At the opening of an intercountry meeting on antenatal care, the Minister of Labour, Health and Social Affairs of Georgia, David Sergeenko, underscored the importance of providing pregnant women with adequate information, stating, “Child development begins before a child is born, therefore the right information and guidance is very important”. The meeting, which took place in Tbilisi, Georgia on 27–28 April, convened representatives from 12 eastern European and central Asian countries with international experts and development partners working in the area of maternal and perinatal health. Over the course of the two days, participants discussed implementation of the renewed WHO recommendations on antenatal care.
Vaccination protects health at every stage of life 21-04-2017
On 24–30 April 2017, the European Region celebrates European Immunization Week, an annual initiative that raises awareness of the importance of immunization for people’s health and well-being. This year, under the slogan #VaccinesWork, stakeholders in all countries will focus on the importance and benefits of immunization at every stage of life.
Meeting on access to quality reproductive health services held in Ukraine 12-04-2017
The Ministry of Health of Ukraine is making efforts to reform the country’s health system, particularly the areas of primary health care (PHC), health financing and public health. This creates both a need and an opportunity to review the provision of reproductive health care at the level of PHC, and to define which services should be provided within a state-guaranteed package for the Ukrainian population.
A step forward in assisting girls and women living with FGM 24-03-2017
On 15–16 March 2017, experts from 14 countries of the WHO European Region met at Sheffield Hallam University in Sheffield, England, for a consultation organized by WHO. Their focus was on how best to implement available guidelines on the prevention and management of complications caused by female genital mutilation (FGM).
Stakeholders in Azerbaijan discuss the strategy for reproductive health (2017–2025) 09-03-2017
Since June 2016, at the request of the Government of Azerbaijan, the WHO Regional Office for Europe has assisted reproductive health experts in the country with analysing the results of implementation of the National Strategy on Reproductive Health of the Republic of Azerbaijan (2008–2015), identifying achievements and remaining gaps and developing a new strategy and action plan. The Regional Office and international experts provided technical support to ensure that national policy documents are in line with the Sustainable Development Goals and other global and regional policies.
World Cancer Day 2017: focus on early diagnosis 03-02-2017
Despite efforts in prevention, early detection and treatment, cancer mortality increased by 6.6% between 2000 and 2015 in the WHO European Region. On World Cancer Day 2017, WHO is publishing a guide to support countries in the early detection aspects of cancer management.
A step forward in respecting human rights and improving access to and quality of family planning 02-12-2016
In line with the recently approved Action plan for sexual and reproductive health: towards achieving the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development in Europe – leaving no one behind, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) organized a workshop in close collaboration with WHO for health professionals, decision-makers and development partners from Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan. The workshop, entitled Ensuring human rights in the provision of contraceptive information and services, took place on 22–24 November 2016 in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. Its overall goal was to ensure that gender-responsive and human rights dimensions are integrated into national family planning strategies.
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.
Preventing alcohol exposure in pregnancy: examples from Member States 08-09-2016
International research shows that, in some countries, up to 82% of pregnant women continue to drink alcohol, despite the fact that there is no known safe limit for drinking during pregnancy. A new WHO/Europe publication shares case studies from countries on raising awareness and providing advice, as well as treatment options for alcohol exposure in pregnancy.
WHO governing body for the European Region convenes with eight strategic proposals on the agenda 08-09-2016
At the 66th session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe, to be held in Copenhagen from 12 to 15 September, representatives from the 53 countries in the WHO European Region will debate a set of innovative action plans that affect public health. The plans call for accelerated action and stronger political commitment on refugee and migrant health, women’s health, sexual and reproductive health, noncommunicable diseases, HIV/AIDS, viral hepatitis, integrated health services and the use of data in public health.
High-level delegation from Sweden visits WHO/Europe 02-09-2016
Health 2020 and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development were in focus during a visit to WHO/Europe by the Swedish National Board of Health and Welfare and the Public Health Agency of Sweden on 1 September 2016. The visit provided Swedish counterparts with insights into WHO’s work at regional, national and subnational levels, as well as an opportunity to discuss how WHO/Europe can work with, in and for the country.
Azerbaijan analyses reproductive health situation and develops strategic goals for 2017–2025 22-08-2016
Azerbaijan is preparing a new reproductive health strategy for 2017–2025 to address areas where progress has been slow or nonexistent, such as in antenatal care, mother-to-child transmission of HIV and syphilis, and family planning.
Republic of Moldova sets priorities for new national programme on reproductive health and rights 01-06-2016
WHO/Europe conducted meetings in the Republic of Moldova on 11–13 May 2016 aimed to support the Ministry of Health in developing a new national programme on sexual and reproductive health and rights, and in using the near-miss case review (NMCR) to analyse and prevent maternal morbidity.
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 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.
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.
Increasing the availability of safe abortion in Kyrgyzstan 09-05-2016
On 25 April 2016 the Ministry of Health of Kyrgyzstan and WHO disseminated findings from a project that trained midwives to provide safe medical abortion up to 9 weeks of gestation to women living in rural, underserved areas of the country.
Montenegro's campaign on sexual and reproductive health 05-04-2016
On 12 February 2016, Montenegro celebrated Sexual and Reproductive Health Awareness Day with a campaign to raise awareness on reproductive health and sexually transmitted diseases, particularly among youths. The Centre for Health Promotion of the Institute of Public Health of Montenegro, in collaboration with the Clinical Centre of Montenegro and the Primary Health Care Centre of Podgorica, organized the campaign.
Improving sexual and reproductive health policies in 17 countries of the European Region 30-03-2016
On 14–15 March 2016, representatives of the United Nations Population Fund, WHO staff and policy-makers from 17 countries in eastern Europe, the Caucasus and central Asia met in Tbilisi, Georgia to discuss further improvement of their national sexual and reproductive health policies.
Building the case and capacities for successful HPV vaccine introduction 23-03-2016
WHO experts hosted a workshop on 16-17 March 2016 in Copenhagen, Denmark, for representatives of 6 middle-income countries currently considering introduction of the vaccine against human papillomavirus (HPV).
New multilingual websites on sexual and reproductive health for migrants 15-03-2016
Two websites that aim to increase the sexual and reproductive health literacy of migrants and to improve their knowledge on available sexual and reproductive health services in Belgium and Germany were recently launched.
Informing policy for young people’s health 15-03-2016
The WHO Health Behaviour in School-aged Children (HBSC) study has influenced policy and legislation across the WHO European Region for over 30 years. The latest update of the study, based on a survey of over 200 000 young people in 42 countries, has been published.
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.
Member States, experts and WHO partners discuss sexual and reproductive health in Europe 05-02-2016
The Regional Consultation on the development of the European Action Plan for Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) was organized by the WHO/ Europe in UN City, Copenhagen on 14-15 December.
WHO Europe concludes two-day technical consultation on a European strategy for women's health 06-01-2016
On 16–17 December 2015, technical experts gathered in Copenhagen, Denmark to discuss strategic directions and key areas for action of a European strategy for women's health 2017–2021. This is the first consultation in the strategy development process, aiming to conclude in September 2016 with a resolution by the 66th session of the Regional Committee for Europe.
Implementing Health 2020 – strengthening the role of national professional officers 16-12-2015
National professional officers (NPOs) from 13 European country offices met at WHO/Europe on 24–26 November 2015 in Copenhagen, Denmark, for training aimed at strengthening their role in developing and implementing national health policies in alignment with Health 2020 and the Sustainable Development Goals.
Highest number of new HIV cases in Europe ever 26-11-2015
With HIV infection diagnosed in over 142 000 people in 2014, the WHO European Region recorded the highest number of newly diagnosed infections in 1 year since the start of reporting in the 1980s. The most recent surveillance data released by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) and the WHO Regional Office for Europe indicate that the growth of the HIV epidemic is driven by the eastern part of the Region, where the number of new diagnoses has more than doubled during the past decade.
Statement - The challenges of migration require migrant-sensitive health systems for today and for the future 29-10-2015
Statement by Dr Zsuzsanna Jakab, WHO Regional Director for Europe
Day 2 of Life-course Conference: Minsk Declaration signed 23-10-2015
The different life stages were discussed throughout the day's proceedings, starting with early childhood and adolescence – a time to optimize growth and development – through the middle years - with timely interventions to maintain peak health – and finally on the implications of the life-course approach for policy-making. The Conference ended with the signing of the Minsk Declaration.
Day 1 of Life-course Conference: synergies between Health 2020 and sustainable development goals 21-10-2015
On the first day of the Conference, delegates from across the WHO European Region recognized that the importance of giving children the best start to life is scientifically based and should be reflected in policies. They also discussed the unique opportunity provided by the recently agreed sustainable development goals (SDGs) and by the Health 2020 policy framework for pursuing a life-course approach to health.
Health ministers explore creating a health chain reaction for life 20-10-2015
The life-course approach, meaning looking at health through the life-cycle, will take centre stage for the first time in Europe at the WHO European Ministerial Conference on the Life-course Approach in the Context of Health 2020, to take place in Minsk, Belarus, on 21–22 October 2015. Ministers of health and representatives of the 53 Member States will join WHO experts to explore a new angle on policy-making, focusing on the developmental origins of health and disease and making a compelling case for policies that address health at the transitions in life, across ages and generations.
Development of a European regional strategy on women’s health 30-09-2015
Women in the WHO European Region have better health than those in most countries of the world, but inequities are increasing both between and within countries in the Region.
Euroasian Women’s Forum puts women’s health high on the agenda 29-09-2015
Almost 800 participants from 80 countries, representing all parts of the world, discussed ways to further improve women's quality of life during the first Euroasian Women's Forum that took place on 24–25 September 2015 in St Petersburg, Russian Federation.
Improving the quality of medical education on reproductive health and family planning in Uzbekistan 11-09-2015
Universal access to quality reproductive health services is one of the goals of the national programme to further improve reproductive, women's, children' s and adolescents' health in Uzbekistan for 2014–2017.
WHO European Region has lowest global breastfeeding rates 05-08-2015
Breastfeeding is the best option for infant feeding and also has long-term health benefits for mothers. However, breastfeeding rates in many countries in the WHO European Region are low, and some mothers with low socioeconomic status are less likely to begin breastfeeding. 1-7 August is World Breastfeeding Week.
UNFPA regional conference on promoting health and rights, reducing inequalities 02-06-2015
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), in partnership with the Government of Bulgaria, hosted the conference from 27–29 May 2015 in Sofia, Bulgaria.
Dramatic increase in Caesarean sections 01-06-2015
For most women, giving birth is a pleasurable and exciting experience and, with great care and support, it is a safe procedure. However, improved technology and increased knowledge about childbirth have also brought a dramatic increase in the number of Caesarean sections (C/S). Medical interventions such as C/S, fetal monitoring and ultrasound are increasingly being used unnecessarily in some countries and women are pressurized into giving birth in a hospital when a home birth may be the best option.
Intersectoral collaboration – improving maternal health in Kyrgyzstan 27-05-2015
During the last 10 years, the Ministry of Health of Kyrgyzstan has carried out numerous projects in reproductive, maternal and child health assisted by WHO and other aid development partners with good results.
New reproductive health policy framework in the Republic of Moldova on its way 18-05-2015
Key stakeholders and development partners met on 14 April 2015 to discuss the implementation results of the National Reproductive Health Strategy (2005–2015) and of the assessment of family planning services, and to agree on the next strategic actions and reproductive health policy documents needed.
Global strategy for women’s, children’s and adolescents’ health 08-05-2015
Launched in September 2010 by the UN Secretary-General, the Global strategy for women's and children's health has contributed to significant improvement worldwide in women's and children's survival and health.
Memorandum of Understanding for Life-course Approach Conference in Minsk now signed 01-04-2015
V. Zharko, Minister of Health of the Republic of Belarus and Z. Jakab, WHO Regional Director for Europe, signed the Memorandum of Understanding for the WHO European Ministerial Conference on Life-course Approach in the Context of Health 2020. The Conference will take place in Minsk on 21-22 October 2015, and will focus on how the latest evidence on influencing health across life stages can be applied by the health sector and the whole of government to improve health and well-being.
National Reproductive Health Strategy in Republic of Moldova: final assessment and new perspectives 17-01-2015
A recent evaluation of the National Reproductive Health Strategy (NRHS) set in 2005 revealed important issues to be addressed in all of 11 priority areas assessed.
Round table discussion on increasing access to cervical cancer screening among Roma women in Serbia 27-11-2014
A round table discussion on strengthening national capacity and intersectorial collaboration for achieving equity in national strategies, programmes and activities for health, using the example of the national programme for the early detection of cervical cancer was held in Belgrade, on 24 September 2014. Organized by the WHO Country Office in Serbia, in collaboration with the National Health Authorities of the Republic of Serbia, the discussion took place at the Dr Milan Jovanovic Batut Institute of Public Health of Serbia.
Europe’s HIV response falls short in curbing the epidemic: 80% more new HIV cases compared to 2004 27-11-2014
The HIV epidemic has continued to spread in Europe since 2004 despite advances in medical treatment and new prevention options. In 2013, more than 136 000 new HIV cases were diagnosed across Europe and Central Asia, according to the most recent data published today by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) and the WHO Regional Office for Europe. This represents an 80% increase compared to 2004, when almost 76 000 new cases were diagnosed.
Health professionals discuss improvement of access to safe abortion 08-10-2014
More than 400 health professionals from 51 countries attended the 11th Conference of International Federation of Professional Abortion and Contraception Associates (FIAPAC) “Task sharing in abortion care” organized in Ljubljana (Slovenia) on 3-4 October 2014.
HIV/AIDS epidemic in Europe: HIV treatment and care 25-08-2014
70 000 more people in the eastern part of the WHO European Region received antiretroviral therapy(ART) in 2012 than in 2010. In September, WHO/Europe will report on progress in implementing the European Action Plan for HIV/AIDS 2012–2015at the 64th session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe. Each month until then, we highlight a specific area of the Action Plan, focusing in August on HIV treatment and care.
Preventing hepatitis B and C 23-07-2014
Hepatitis B and C are prevalent in the WHO European Region. This year, WHO and partners have made significant advances in tackling the disease, and on World Hepatitis Day they urge policy-makers, health workers and the public to "think again" about this silent killer.
HIV/AIDS epidemic in Europe: sexual transmission of HIV 18-06-2014
In September, WHO/Europe will report on progress in implementing the European Action Plan for HIV/AIDS 2012–2015. Each month until then, it highlights a specific area of the Action Plan, focusing in June on the sexual transmission of HIV.
Sexuality education – the way forward for equality 21-05-2014
On the eve of European Parliament elections more than 300 participants from France, Spain, the Netherlands, Poland and other EU countries discussed the present situation of sexuality education in a European conference “Sexuality education: the Way forward for Equality and Empowerment” organized by Le Planning Familial, Member Association of International Planned Parenthood.
Implementing new ways to improve maternal and child health in Transnistrian Region 06-05-2014
Progress in implementation of a "near-miss case review" methodology in the Republic of Moldova was presented at a conference in Tiraspol on 2 April 2014. Although access to quality maternal and newborn health services has improved over the past 10 years in the Republic of Moldova, there is room for further improvement to enhance the quality of care and support the achievement of Millennium Development Goal targets.
Member States share experiences in implementing "Beyond the Numbers" case reviews to reduce maternal and newborn deaths 06-05-2014
A WHO meeting on the impact of the "Beyond the Numbers" approach in improving maternal and perinatal health was held on 29–30 April 2014 in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan.
International Women’s Day – ‘Equality for women is progress for all’ 07-03-2014
Globally, over 800 women die every day from preventable causes related to pregnancy and childbirth. Even though these deaths have fallen by half over the last 20 years, the rate of decline is less than half of what is needed to achieve the 2015 target of the United Nations Millennium Development Goals (MDGs).
Accurate data needed to improve care for women and children in Tajikistan 23-01-2014
As part of a framework for improving accountability for women's and children's health, based on the recommendations of the WHO Commission for Information Accountability, Ministry of Health experts provided a series of 3-day capacity building workshops on 14-27 November 2013 for 80 health information system specialists across the country.
Improving media reporting on women´s and children´s health in Tajikistan 08-01-2014
Workshops for media professionals were held on 4–7 December 2013 in Tajikistan to increase awareness and knowledge on reproductive, maternal, newborn and child health (RMNCH) and to build journalists´ skills in creating quality media products.
New perinatal card launched in Armenia 17-12-2013
National workshop launching the new perinatal card in Armenia was held on December 5, 2013 in Yerevan. It concluded an important stage of implementation of the project focused on improvement of antenatal and postpartum care (APPC) in Armenia, Kyrgyzstan and across the region.
Capacity building in operational research in reproductive health in countries of eastern and central Europe 26-11-2013
Representatives of 17 countries of WHO European Region discussed their experience in using knowledge and skills in operational research for further improvement of reproductive health during the WHO meeting “Capacity building in operational research in reproductive health in countries of eastern and central Europe” organized in Kaunas, Lithuania, 18-19 November.
Sexual and reproductive health and rights in the centre of recommendations of the UNECE Regional ICPD beyond 2014 conference 15-07-2013
The European Regional conference Enabling Choices: Population Priorities for the 21st Century was organized by UNECE and UNFPA in Geneva on 1-2 July 2013. It was the culmination of the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) review in the UNECE region comprising Europe, central Asia and North America
Just published: From ICPD to post-2015. Entre Nous No 78, 2013 01-07-2013
Two decades after the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) held in Cairo in 1994, governments, parliaments, civil society and international organizations are reviewing achievements and remaining gaps in implementation of the ICPD Programme of Action in achieving universal access to sexual and reproductive health and rights.
27% of women in Europe experience intimate partner violence and or non-partner violence 20-06-2013
A new report released today, “Global and regional estimates of violence against women”, reveals that 27.2% of women in the WHO European Region have experienced either physical or sexual violence by an intimate partner or sexual violence by someone other than a partner, or both, at some point in their lives.
Rotarian Action Group for Population & Development (RFPD) Academy discusses possibilities to boost improvement of maternal and child health 18-06-2013
The members of Rotaract Germany, the Rotarian youth organization, recognize the role of reproductive health for peace and the key role of UN Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) 4 and 5 for the achievement of all other MDGs. Maternal and child health are or should be important topics for people of all age groups, but it is of special importance to the younger generations since they will have to face the future effects of current efforts or inaction.
From research and guidelines to improving sexual and reproductive health and rights 29-05-2013
The First global conference on contraception, reproductive and sexual health took place 22–25 May 2013 in Copenhagen. It united 1500 experts, policy makers, civil society representatives and health care providers from 92 countries.
Improving sexual and reproductive health and implementing Health 2020 27-05-2013
The 7th meeting of the WHO European Regional Advisory Panel (RAP) on Research and Training in Reproductive Health took place in the UN City in Copenhagen, 21–22 May 2013. RAP members and partners representing the UN family, non-governmental organizations and professional societies were informed by the WHO secretariat representing Reproductive Health and Research/Human Reproduction Programme in the WHO headquarters and many programmes of WHO/Europe on the progress in implementation of Health 2020 and other strategies and action plans approved by the WHO European Regional Committee.
1 in 100 women in Europe will develop cervical cancer 22-04-2013
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the primary cause of cervical cancer. It is a highly contagious infection that is transmitted through sexual or skin-to-skin contact. Over three quarters of sexually active women get it at some point in their lives. There are over 100 types of HPV, but 2 – types 16 and 18 – cause 70% of cancers. The HPV vaccine is almost 100% effective in preventing the persistent HPV infections that cause cervical cancer.
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.
Adolescence: a unique time requiring a tailored response 25-02-2013
Adolescence is a time of great changes and challenges, often overlooked by health systems and services. Focusing on adolescent health through school health services, health promoting schools and other targeted interventions has the potential to prevent up to two thirds of deaths in young people.
Please mark the dates: First global conference on contraception, reproductive and sexual health to be held in Copenhagen 22–25 May 2013 22-02-2013
The First global conference on contraception, reproductive and sexual health organized by the European Society of Contraception and Reproductive Health (ESC) will take place in Copenhagen on 22–25 May 2013. Her Royal Highness Crown Princess Mary is the Patroness of the Congress.
Alcohol and tobacco use among young people falls in the Russian Federation 15-02-2013
Data published by WHO/Europe show a significant fall in alcohol and tobacco use by young people in the Russian Federation. The latest report from the Health Behaviour in School-aged Children (HBSC) study shows a decline in the number of 13-year-old girls who smoke at least once a week. Weekly smoking among 15-year-old boys and girls is also decreasing.
Ageing and sexual health 11-02-2013
The 77th edition of Entre Nous addresses a broad spectrum of aspects of ageing and sexual health, from specific medical challenges to wider social trends that recognize that sexuality and sexual health are an intrinsic part of health and wellbeing in older age. The perspectives reflected in the content highlight how gains in life span can be transformed into increasing health and wellbeing, including sexual health, in older age groups, that touch upon the most intimate aspects of healthy ageing.
European Parliament holds hearing on sexual and reproductive health and rights 29-01-2013
The Women's Rights and Gender Equality Committee of the European Parliament conducted a public hearing on sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) in Brussels on 22 January 2013. The hearing was organized by the Women's Rights and Gender Equality Committee to gather information for a report on SRHR and gender equality in the European Union. The report is scheduled to be finalized in 2013.
Child marriage – a threat to health 20-12-2012
Child marriage disproportionately affects girls, with a life-long impact on their physical and psychological health. The effect goes far beyond denying them the basic right to choose their own life partner – complications from early and unwanted pregnancies are among the leading causes of death for girls aged 15–19 years worldwide.
Human Rights Day 2012: “My voice counts” 10-12-2012
Everyone has the right to health. WHO/Europe works with civil-society organizations to ensure that socially excluded groups that experience discrimination and stigma are involved in the development of health policies affecting them and are empowered to make decisions about their own health.
First step to stronger collaboration with UNFPA 05-12-2012
WHO/Europe works closely with the United Nations Population Fund Eastern Europe and Central Asia Regional Office (UNFPA EECARO) in a broad range of health areas. On 3 December 2012, Werner Haug, Regional Director of UNFPA EECARO, met Zsuzsanna Jakab, WHO Regional Director for Europe, to discuss strengthening strategic collaboration between the two agencies.
Entre Nous focusing on child marriage 04-12-2012
Entre Nous no. 76 is a special issue produced with technical and financial support of the Eastern Europe and Central Asia Regional Office of UNFPA. This issue is dedicated to the complex phenomenon of child marriage and its relationship to sexual and reproductive health in the WHO European Region. Child marriage and childbearing affect girls’ physical and psychological health. Girls are not only at risk of early and unwanted pregnancies, but the complications associated with pregnancy and child birth are among the leading causes of death for girls aged 15 –19 worldwide.
Members of the Parliament ready to speed up cervical cancer prevention process 19-11-2012
During the meeting “Strengthening Cervical Cancer Prevention in Eastern Europe and the Balkans” in Prague, 15–16 November 2012, Members of the Parliament from 12 countries were informed about the situation in primary and secondary cervical cancer prevention in the European Region and particularly countries of Eastern Europe, Caucasus and the Balkan, and the latest UN, UNFPA and WHO policies and action plans including “Action Plan for implementation of the European Strategy for the Prevention and Control of Noncommunicable Disease 2012–2016” were presented.
More evidence on linkages between NCDs and SRH in Entre Nous 24-10-2012
The 75th issue of Entre Nous explores the many parallels between noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) and sexual and reproductive health (SRH) in terms of vulnerabilities and risks for and as a result of ill health, such as, poverty, inequity, social determinants of health and socio-cultural factors. This issue covers guidance in the implementation of the new European policy for health “Health 2020”.
SAFE II – a foundation for youth involvement and networking in sexual and reproductive health and rights in the future 23-10-2012
On 17 October, Representatives from 16 IPPF Member Associations and collaborative partners including the Executive Agency for Health and Consumers of the European Commission gathered in Brussels for the final meeting of the Sexual Awareness for Europe (SAFE II) project advancing young people’s sexual and reproductive health and rights in Europe.
Scaling up access to safe abortion care in Ukraine 22-10-2012
A workshop dedicated to the development of a scaling-up strategy of the Comprehensive Care for Unwanted Pregnancies (CCUP) approach in Ukraine was organized in Kyiv on 3-5 October 2012.
New report on improving access to safe abortion care 26-09-2012
WHO/Europe has just published a new report of the meeting held in Riga, Latvia, 30-31 May 2012 which disseminated new WHO recommendations on safe abortion care.
Joining forces to improve the quality of family planning services in Kyrgyzstan 14-09-2012
Following a strategic assessment in 2011 on the prevention of unintended pregnancies and unsafe abortion in Kyrgyzstan, a training of trainers course was conducted on 13–17 August 2012 to build knowledge within the health workforce on the medical criteria for safe and effective use of various contraceptives.
Experts meet to discuss Guidance for Implementation of the Standards for Sexuality Education in Europe 11-09-2012
Many countries in the WHO European Region are familiar with the Standards for sexuality education: A framework for policy makers, educational and health authorities and specialists (2010). Several countries have already translated the Standards into national languages and used them to improve existing sexuality education systems, however, many questions have been raised on e.g. what is the best way to develop a new programme or how to review an existing one.
The first EUROGIN congress in eastern Europe: clinicians and scientists meet in Prague to review progress in prevention and control of cervical cancer 12-07-2012
The EUROGIN 2012 congress, held 8–11 July in Prague, Czech Republic, focused on recent developments in prevention and management of cervical cancer and other diseases linked with HPV (human papillomavirus). Special attention was paid to progress in cervical cancer prevention and management in countries of eastern and central Europe.
London Summit - WHO joins call for renewed focus on family planning 11-07-2012
WHO commits to fast-track its assessment of new and existing quality contraceptives so more women in low- and middle-income countries can obtain and use a broader range of safe and effective contraceptive products.
Operations research in reproductive health: training course in Tajikistan 10-07-2012
A training course on operations research in reproductive health, organized jointly by WHO/Europe and WHO headquarters, was held on 7–18 May 2012 in Dushanbe. This course was an important step towards strengthening the country's research capacity in the area of sexual and reproductive health.
New safe abortion guidelines released 06-07-2012
Unsafe abortion kills. Much has been done to improve abortion services in the European Region, but unsafe abortion still causes up to 30% of maternal deaths in some countries in eastern Europe and central Asia.
Contraception - myths and misconceptions discussed in Athens 26-06-2012
More than 2000 participants from all over Europe and many countries of the world attended the 12th Congress of the European Society of Contraception and Reproductive Health (ESC&RH) “Myths and misconceptions versus evidence on contraception” that took place in Athens, Greece 20-23 June.
Countdown to 2015. Maternal, New Born and Child Survival 19-06-2012
New report on both progress and obstacles on the way to achieving Millennium Development Goals 4 and 5
Strengthening partnership in family planning 18-06-2012
Experts meet to discuss safe abortion care 01-06-2012
Unintended pregnancy should be rare, and abortion safe and accessible, said Zsuzsanna Jakab, WHO Regional Director for Europe, at an international meeting in Latvia on 30–31 May 2012.
WHO/Europe participates in meeting on disease prevention in the context of sexual health 01-06-2012
On 22-23 May, the WHO/Europe programme on HIV/AIDS, sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and viral hepatitis (HSV) participated in an European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) expert meeting entitled “Comprehensive Approach to Disease Prevention in the context of Sexual Health”.
Should we be worried about teenagers? 02-05-2012
The latest report from the Health Behaviour in School-aged Children (HBSC) study, based on interviews with over 200 000 young people, is out. The study’s International Coordinator explains some of its key findings, current trends and how HBSC began. Read more …
Sexual health: why pay attention to this issue during adolescence? 02-05-2012
HBSC Fact sheet
WHO report reveals teenagers do not get a fair deal on health 02-05-2012
Widespread inequalities mean that many young people in the WHO European Region and North America are not as healthy as they could be, according to a new report on the Health Behaviour in School-aged Children (HBSC) study, published by the WHO Regional Office for Europe.
New tool on assessment of quality of antenatal and postpartum care piloted in Kyrgyzstan 28-03-2012
Maternal and newborn mortality and morbidity is decreasing in many countries of the WHO European Region, however, much more should be done to accelerate the progress. The Ministry of Health of Kyrgyzstan has requested assistance of WHO, UNFPA and UNICEF in accessing the quality of maternal and neonatal health care to develop recommendations for improvement in consultation with international and national experts.
Long-term plan in research capacity building in reproductive health for Tajikistan 08-03-2012
One of the mechanisms used by WHO to enhance the research capacity in Tajikistan is the award of a grant for a long-term institutional development (LID). This will include the technical support provided by WHO in the field of development of the human resources needed for research and strengthening of other resources.
Evidence for gender responsive actions to prevent and manage adolescent pregnancy 21-02-2012
The series of “Young people’s health as a whole-of-society response” shows that gender differences and inequalities affect various aspects of illness, health and wellbeing in girls and boys in the European Region.
Causes and consequences: what determines our sexual and reproductive health? Entre Nous 73, 2011 14-02-2012
Issue No 73 of Entre Nous, “Causes and consequences: What determines our sexual and reproductive health?” focuses on the relationship between health inequities, social determinants of health and sexual and reproductive health, highlighting the progress, challenges, current status and commitment that has been made in this area throughout the European Region. The issue also features an article on the new European policy for health “Health 2020” which is currently under development and how this policy can be used to tackle the public health challenges of today such as vulnerable groups and inequities.
Conference focusing on HIV prevention and human rights 10-11-2011
High level experts and policy-makers from all over the world will meet in Berlin on 21 November to take stock of what has been achieved so far and map out what can be done in the future to fight HIV and AIDS.
Linking sexual and reproductive health and HIV in countries of Eastern Europe and Central Asia: Examining the future of integrated services 09-11-2011
Representatives from 13 countries in Eastern Europe and Central Asia met in Antalya, Turkey, on 2–4 November to examine how to develop better linkages between Sexual Reproductive Health, HIV, sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and other services.
Women and cancer: screening and treatment save lives 03-11-2011
One in five women in the European Region will get cancer before the age of 75. A third of cancers are preventable, and common types among women – breast, colorectal and cervical – can be cured if detected early.
Deaths of 30 000 women can be prevented – WHO/Europe calls for more action on cervical cancer 19-10-2011
Last week, over 100 experts and policy-makers from 42 countries and 7 partner organizations gathered in Istanbul, Turkey to discuss the prevention of cervical cancer in the WHO European Region. This cancer kills 30 000 women in Europe every year – a preventable and unacceptable cost to society. An effective vaccine now exists to protect women against human papillomavirus (HPV), the primary cause of cervical cancer, and effective screening programmes can trigger life-saving action before the disease starts.
Moving ahead with sexuality education in the European Region 10-10-2011
On 6–7 October 2011 the Federal Centre for Health Education (BZgA) and WHO Regional Office for Europe jointly hosted a workshop in Cologne, Germany, on the further development of good quality sexuality education in the European Region.
WHO guidelines on contraception promoted at seminar of the European Society of Contraception and Reproductive Health (ESCRH) 06-10-2011
Every two years ESCRH organizes seminars and gives health professionals the possibility to attend lectures of experts and participate in workshops on topical issues of everyday practice in providing reproductive health services.
Cervical cancer prevention – programme managers meet in Istanbul to strengthen decision-making and share experiences and best practice 05-10-2011
More than 40 Member States will meet in Istanbul to review progress and share experience, best practices and lessons learned within cervical cancer prevention. The meeting will take place 11-12 October 2011.
Congress of the European Society of Gynecology – from contraception and maternal health to cardiology and cancer 16-09-2011
On 8–11 September, the Tivoli Congress Centre in Copenhagen set the stage for the 9th Congress of the European Society of Gynaecology (ESG). More than 2300 gynaecologists from over 65 countries attended. Topics ranged from contraception, maternal health, pregnancy and contraception for women with cardiovascular diseases, cancer, diabetes to less familiar issues such as obesity, gender issues and violence prevention.
Entre Nous special issue focussing on maternal and child health in Kazakhstan 11-07-2011
Issue No 74 of Entre Nous, “Improvement of maternal and child health in Kazakhstan” describes how politicians, managers and clinicians, supported by WHO and the European Union, have begun to transform out-of-date practice by introducing evidence-based care.
Sexual health throughout life 24-06-2011
Sexuality and sexual experiences are part of everyone’s life, and involve different needs and implications at different stages.
Ukraine scales up services for women with unwanted pregnancies 07-06-2011
Ukraine has developed and implemented new national standards for safe abortion care. This achievement in improving the quality of services for women with unwanted pregnancies involved implementing evidence-based recommendations on safe abortion through working with WHO/Europe and the Ministry of Health (MoH) in Ukraine.
Armenia one step closer to achieving universal access to reproductive health 27-05-2011
The international community has agreed that improving maternal health (Millennium Development Goal 5) is impossible without providing high-quality services for family planning. The prevalence of contraceptive use and the unmet need for family planning are becoming indicators for this Millennium Development Goal.
Sexual health: A public health challenge in Europe. Entre Nous 72, 2011 23-05-2011
Issue No 72 of Entre Nous, “Sexual Health: A Public Health Challenge in Europe,” explores the progress that has been made in sexual health across Europe. It highlights the broader concepts of sexual wellbeing including the fundamental belief that sexual health is an integral part of overall health, wellbeing and quality of life. Analysis of sexual health of adolescents, older people, migrants, people living with HIV and people with disabilities in the WHO European Region is presented in the magazine.
Cervical cancer - policy makers can do much more 17-05-2011
Is reproductive health still a topical health issue in the European Union? 17-05-2011
The final full team meeting of the project financially supported by European Commission “The State of Reproductive Health and Fertility in the European Union” was organized 6 May 2011. Leading reproductive health experts from 27 European Union (EU) countries discussed the draft report on reproductive health focusing on existing childbearing policies, teenage sexual and reproductive health, contraception, abortion and medically assisted reproduction.
Strengthening the network of the WHO Collaborating Centres 03-05-2011
Videoconference of WHO Collaborating Centres working in the area of reproductive health, based in the European Region, 29 April 2011
Regional Advisory Panel for Research and Training in Reproductive Health in the European Region convenes in Copenhagen 03-05-2011
Members of the Regional Advisory Panel for Research and Training in the European Region met in Copenhagen from 27-28 April together with observers, partners and representatives from WHO headquarters to discuss and decide on further implementation of the WHO Global Reproductive Health Strategy (2004) and the WHO European Regional Strategy on Reproductive and Sexual Health (2001).
Turkey focuses on combating women’s cancer 05-04-2011
Despite Turkey having one of the lowest incidences of registered cancer cases in the European region, both cervical and breast cancer have increased over the past 5 years. On 3 April 2011, the Cancer Department of the Ministry of Health in Turkey organized an International Symposium to launch “Cancer week 1-7 April 2011”. The Minister of Health of Turkey launched the event emphasizing that 2011 will be dedicated to women’s cancer.
Ways to move forward – improving reproductive health in Azerbaijan 22-03-2011
There are less than 5 years to go before the entire world will evaluate the implementation of the goals of the Millennium Development Declaration and activities in the countries are speeding up to meet the goals of the Declaration. Azerbaijan is one of the countries of the WHO European Region that has developed a clear policy on improving maternal health and achieving universal access to reproductive health. During a two-day meeting in Baku, national and international stakeholders discussed triggers and barriers in the implementation of the National Reproductive Health Strategy (2008-2015).
Seventh Meeting of the Regional Advisory Panel for Research and Training in Reproductive Health in the European Region, Copenhagen, Denmark, 27–28 April 2011 16-03-2011
The aim of the meeting is to inform the panel members on the corporate priorities of the WHO Regional Office for Europe, to evaluate the progress in implementation of the WHO Reproductive Health Strategy and to prioritize activities in Europe for 2012-2013.
Gender equality key to Millennium Development Goals 28-02-2011
Gender equality and empowerment of women – Millennium Development Goal (MDG) 3 – contribute to progress on all other MDGs, especially MDG 4 on reducing childhood mortality and MDG 5 on improving maternal health.
Are we on track? Progress towards MDG 3, 4 and 5 in Europe. Entre Nous 71, 2011 10-02-2011
Standards for Sexuality Education in Europe start their way to countries of Eastern Europe and Central Asia 01-12-2010
Excellent example of collaboration in the field of contraception, sexually-transmitted infections, abortion and reproductive health 23-11-2010
Course on Operations Research, Kaunas, Lithuania, November 2010 19-11-2010
Sexual and reproductive health – still a major challenge in the 21st Century. World Health Summit 2010 12-10-2010
Sexual health – more than sexually transmitted infections and unwanted pregnancies 08-10-2010
Policy-makers are meeting in Madrid, Spain, on 21–22 October 2010, to agree on a common understanding of sexual health, based on a positive and respectful approach to sexuality and sexual relationships, beyond the traditional perception of sexual health that focuses on sexually transmitted infections and unwanted pregnancies.
Progress regarding MDGs 3, 4 and 5. Draft conclusions from WHO meeting of national focal points for family and community health in Durres, Albania. 06-10-2010
70th issue of Entre Nous “Statistics and stories: Improving the Quality of Maternal and Neonatal Health in Europe” 28-09-2010
The 70th issue of Entre Nous “Statistics and stories: Improving the Quality of Maternal and Neonatal Health in Europe” is a special edition that focuses on how various countries throughout Europe are using the Beyond the Numbers tool developed by the WHO’s Making Pregnancy Safer Programme. Directed at health care providers, policy makers and managers working in maternal and neonatal health, Beyond the Numbers provides approaches for examining reasons behind maternal deaths and complications as a means to improve quality of care.
Achieving Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) on improving Child and Maternal Health and Gender Equality in the WHO European Region 28-09-2010
11th Congress of the European Society of Contraception and Reproductive Health “Culture, Communication, Contraception”, The Hague, Netherlands, 19-22 May, 2010 21-06-2010
11th Congress of the European Society of Contraception and Reproductive Health "Culture, Communication, Contraception", The Hague, Netherlands, 19-22 May, 2010
Maternal mortality halved in eastern Europe and central Asia, but too many women die giving life 28-04-2010
In the past ten years, maternal mortality has halved but vulnerable groups are still not reached and many women die or suffer from complications while giving birth. Contraception is seen as the most cost-effective solution. At a meeting organized in Istanbul on 11 November 2009 by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), WHO/Europe, international experts and policy-makers from 20 countries in eastern Europe and central Asia pledged to step up the fight against needless death and suffering from pregnancy and childbirth