Unacceptable gaps persist in how long people can expect to live healthy lives. These gaps depend on the countries and communities in which people live; their level of education and income; their race, ethnicity and gender; and whether they have a disability. The social determinants of health equity - that is, the conditions in which people are born, grow, live, work, and age and people’s access to power, money, and resources – have a powerful influence on these avoidable and unjust health gaps.
The comprehensive World report on social determinants of health equity reviews the insufficient progress on meeting the health equity targets reflected in the 2008 WHO Commission on the Social Determinants of Health. With 14 specific recommendations for action, the World Report focuses the narrative and action agenda on what produces and reproduces health inequities and what proven policy remedies are available. Its aim is to inform global, national and local policymaking, providing a foundation for coordinated action and investment in social determinants of health equity.
The global launch event took place on Tuesday, 6 May from 13h00 - 14h00 CEST and was live-streamed (the live stream video is available below). The event included:
- A presentation of the World report on social determinants of health equity, highlighting its key findings and recommendations
- Reflections from Member States
- A high-level panel discussion on taking the health equity agenda forward
- Statements from WHO leadership
For more details, please review the event's programme here.