Behaviours have a critical impact on health and well-being. However, reporting from public health authorities in the Region shows that there is often a lack of sustainable funding or human resources, and few strategic plans in place to support a systematic use of evidence and robust methods to enable and support health behaviours.

To set a new course for this important area of work, in September 2022 the Member States of the WHO European Region adopted a regional resolution, alongside a 5-year action framework. In May 2023 a global resolution was unanimously adopted as well.

The regional documents include 5 ambitious strategic commitments for the next 5 years, guided by a set of principles, focusing on equity, participation and above all, people-centredness.

Implementing the resolution and action framework

Each Member State has nominated a BCI focal point to work together with WHO to advance the implementation of the BCI resolution and action framework. This group worked with WHO to develop the documents and is now evolving into a community of practice that meets regularly to share experiences, tools and approaches. The BCI focal points also report to WHO on the extent of BCI activities at country level.