Europe 2020 plans can go further for health equity

Will EU plans to promote more growth and jobs include measures to ensure people’s well-being?

The promotion of well-being is after all a stated EU objective in the Treaty of Lisbon.

“The Union's aim is to promote peace, its values and the well-being of its peoples,” according to Title 1 of Article 3 of the Treaty.

Current proposals for the “Europe 2020” strategy are however still lacking in concrete measures to deliver socially inclusive, sustainable policies which promote health for all.

This is the central message of a new briefing document by the Equity Channel on the plans, which follows on from a previous post about the strategy.

Employment is one example of where EU policies can have a significant impact on health equity and well-being.

One of the five main “headline targets” for Europe 2020 is to achieve a rate of 75% employment for people aged 20-64.

What is not mentioned is how to ensure good quality employment as part of job creation strategies.

This should include jobs which are socially inclusive and non-discriminatory.

The WHO has underlined the importance of fair employment in a report on the social determinants of health.

"Through the assurance of fair employment and decent working conditions, government, employers, and workers can help eradicate poverty, alleviate social inequities, reduce exposure to physical and psychosocial hazards, and enhance opportunities for health and well-being,” the WHO says.

The Equity Channel briefing comes ahead of the Spring Council on 25/26 March, during which ministers from national governments will discuss the ten-year strategy.

EuroHealthNet is also holding a major debate on the Europe 2020 strategy and the policy options for fairer health, more sustainability and greater well-being for all.

Please remember to check this website for an update on the outcomes of the discussions, policy ideas and suggestions from academics, civil society and EU representatives.

The Equity Channel briefing on Europe 2020 is available on our publications page.