Health 2020: policy framework and strategy
Reaching out: why health is important to the whole of society and whole of government Part 1 details what Health 2020 aims to achieve, together with the current context and determinants for health and well-being and the key current social, technological and economic drivers, trends and opportunities.
Health 2020 vision, goals, strategic objectives and priorities Health 2020 is a joint commitment by the WHO Regional Office for Europe and the 53 European Member States to a new common policy framework. The proposed vision for Health 2020 (Box 1) is consistent both with the concept of health as a human right and with a reduction in current health inequalities. Health 2020 is also consistent with existing commitments endorsed by Member States, including the United Nations Millennium Declaration (9) and Millennium Development Goals (10), which embrace a vision of a world in which countries work in partnership for the betterment of everyone, especially the most disadvantaged people. Box 1. The Health 2020 vision A WHO European Region in which all people are enabled and supported in achieving their full health potential and well-being and in which countries, individually and jointly, work towards reducing inequities in health within the Region and beyond The Health 2020 policy framework can be adopted and adapted to the different realities that make up the European Region. It describes how health and well-being can be advanced, sustained and measured through action that creates social cohesion, security, a good work–life balance, good health and good education. It reaches out to the many different actors within and outside government and provides inspiration and direction on addressing the complex health challenges of the 21st century. The framework confirms values and, based on evidence, identifies strategic directions and essential actions. It builds on the experiences gained through previous Health for All policies and guides the actions of both Member States and the Regional Office. A vision relates to a high ideal. It needs to be translated into an achievable goal, which is expressed below (Box 2). Box 2. Health 2020’s shared goals To significantly improve the health and well-being of populations, reduce health inequalities, strengthen public health and ensure sustainable people-centred health systems that are universal, equitable, sustainable and of high quality Health 2020 recognizes that successful governments will achieve real improvements in health and well-being if they work across government to integrate action in two key strategic areas (Box 3).
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