The EU global health strategy: from policy to implementation

Area of Science:

• Global Health Policy
• Health Systems Strengthening
• International Cooperation

Background:

• The European Global Health Research Institutes Network (EGHRIN) analyzed the draft EU Global Health Strategy released in November 2022.
• The strategy aims to address global health challenges through a life-course approach, focusing on wellbeing and equity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To critically assess the strengths and weaknesses of the draft EU Global Health Strategy.
• To identify key areas for improvement in the strategy's formulation and planned implementation.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of the draft EU Global Health Strategy by 22 leading European Universities within EGHRIN.
• Commentary on the strategy's alignment with sustainable development goals and its consideration of health determinants.

Main Results:

• The strategy demonstrates positive commitments to life-course wellbeing, health system strengthening, and equitable health threat combating.
• Identified weaknesses include a lack of critical assessment of the private sector's role, insufficient attention to syndemics, and limited emphasis on transdisciplinary and ethical training.
• The strategy's implementation is hindered by a lack of a resourced funding mechanism and evidence of integration into all EU policy areas.

Conclusions:

• While the EU Global Health Strategy's commitments are commendable, its effective implementation is the primary challenge.
• Urgent acceptance of the policy and an implementation plan is crucial, especially in the current geopolitical climate.
• Addressing funding, policy integration, and specific health concepts like syndemics will be vital for the strategy's success.