Refocusing on the foundations : strategy for child and adolescent health in Europe and Central Asia 2026-2030 – a healthy start for a healthy life

Abstract

The World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Office for Europe and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNIICEF) Europe and Central Asia have jointly led the development process of a new strategy for children and adolescents in Europe – a healthy start for a healthy life – to guide evidence-based, future-oriented action across the Region. It was developed through a multi-step process, including a regional assessment, commissioned evidence reviews, and a multi-stakeholder survey. Consultations with Member States, technical experts, and adolescents ensured a participatory approach. The strategy identifies five areas for action: investing in child and adolescent health, ensuring access to high-quality care, protecting against commercial and digital harms, fostering multisectoral collaboration, and strengthening accountability through improved data and monitoring. The strategy provides clear roles for countries and partners and is designed to support equitable, evidence-based implementation across the WHO European Region. It introduces an innovative framework that addresses both persistent gaps and emerging threats. Its dual-level structure, with defined roles for both Member States and WHO/UNICEF, reflects a more collaborative and accountable model of implementation. The emphasis on adolescent participation, regulatory action, and multisectoral investment signals a shift toward more inclusive and systemic approaches to child and adolescent health and well-being. To succeed, the strategy will require strong political will, sustained investment, and active engagement from health professionals, communities, and children and adolescents themselves.