Across the WHO European Region, funding, human resources and strategic plans to support a more evidence-based approach to health behaviours may be limited. This has been confirmed in several studies and reporting from Member States to WHO.  

To advance the use of more effective approaches to health behaviours, Member States in September 2022 adopted a regional resolution and a 5-year action plan. This was followed by a global resolution in May 2023. 

The regional documents include 5 ambitious strategic commitments to ensure a more evidence based, people centred and culturally grounded approach to health behaviours.

Implementing the resolution and action plan

Each Member State has nominated a behavioural and cultural insights (BCI) focal point. This community of practice worked with WHO to develop the resolution and action plan and is now working to ensure their implementation. The group meets regularly to share experiences, tools and approaches. The BCI focal points also report to WHO on BCI activities at country level.