As the European Region faces a demographic transition with more older people than young, @hans_kluge outlines the vital contribution older people make to society, and 2 key factors – dignity & social connection - they need to age in good health. #EPW2 #UnitedActionForBetterHealth

Today, we launched a series of five public hearings to shape new European Programme of Work – #EPW2 – our health compass for the next 5+ years. I was honored to welcome champions of health to the launch event: 🔹H.E. Katrín Jakobsdóttir, former Prime Minister of Iceland 🇮🇸, Chair of the Council of Women World Leaders; 🔹H.E. Alar Karis, President of Estonia 🇪🇪; 🔹Alexey Tsoy, advisor to the President of Kazakhstan 🇰🇿; 🔹Michael R. Bloomberg, WHO Global Ambassador for Noncommunicable Diseases and Injuries, 🔹Judita Përndrecaj from #Youth4Health Network & others. Their voices and leadership are crucial as we face a defining moment for health in Europe. Climate emergencies, aging populations, rising inequalities and the unrelenting burden of chronic and mental health conditions are converging into a perfect storm, demanding long-term vision and bold political commitment. These hearings offer a unique platform to tackle these megatrends. None of these challenges can be solved overnight. They require strategic collaboration & sustained action to secure a healthier future for generations to come. 1/ @katrinjak @AlarKaris @ALEXEYTSOY3 @MikeBloomberg @WHO @WHO_Europe

The future of health in Europe is at stake. Offer your expertise to help us shape the impact of WHO/Europe over the next five years. Join the hearings informing the second European Programme of Work (EPW2):

📢Calling all health partners. Don't miss your chance to shape the future of health & well-being in Europe! Starting next week join the conversation in our hearings: covering a range of topics from climate change to emergencies to healthy ageing & more:

The development of the Second European Programme of Work is off to a flying start! @WHO_Europe's thanks to the 38 Member States participating in this first consultation today, for their energy and support for: ☑️Helping co-create the EPW2 strategy for the entire Pan-European Region ☑️Agreeing to 5 ‘hearings’ on megatrends in health to be held in early 2025 – gathering insights from multiple stakeholders ☑️ Establishing a prioritized 5-year programme of work and long-term direction to 'future-proof' our health systems And as we build EPW2, we'll continue to build on the work of EPW1! #UnitedActionForBetterHealth

With support from @eu_echo, @WHO installed a high-capacity modular heating unit in the Odesa region. Designed to serve 300,000 residents, it ensures uninterrupted care this winter, even amid attacks on infrastructure.

Today, a 3-level WHO mission began in Ukraine, led by @GundoWeiler and @HabichtJarno. The delegation met with health authorities to discuss support for healthcare systems, preparedness for winter 2024-2025, and strengthening health emergency responses.