Second European Programme of Work, 2026–2030: United Action for Better Health

Overview

The Second European Programme of Work, 2026–2030: United Action for Better Health (EPW2) was adopted by the WHO Regional Committee for Europe at its 75th session, following the recommendation of the Thirty-second Standing Committee of the Regional Committee for Europe. EPW2 was developed through an iterative and participatory process. It included five public hearings, country and subregional consultations, a foresight exercise, regular meetings with Member State focal points and two rounds of feedback on written drafts from Member States. EPW2 builds on the first European Programme of Work, 2020–2025 – “United Action for Better Health” (EPW) and on global and regional commitments, including WHO’s Fourteenth General Programme of Work, 2025–2028 and the Sustainable Development Goals. It is ambitious in scope, specific in its commitments and strategic in responding to tighter resources. EPW2 is composed of three parts: 1. The health compass: a shared vision and collective agenda for health in the WHO European Region; 2. WHO/Europe’s programme of work: a focused set of priorities and actions that the WHO Regional Office for Europe (WHO/Europe) will deliver with and for Member States between 2026 and 2030; 3. Organizational shifts in WHO/Europe: adaptation of structures and ways of working to strengthen performance, ensure accountability, and uphold the highest standards of technical and scientific excellence amidst resource constraints. EPW2 provides the framework for united action by Member States, partners and WHO/Europe to advance health in the Region over the period 2026–2030.