Factsheet: Health Inequalities in the EU
There continue to be big differences in health outcomes between groups of people and between countries in Europe. To address these inequalities and to improve health for all, we need to shift Europe’s narrative on fiscal and social policy to one where issues are addressed holistically; where spending in social and health protection and wellbeing is understood as an investment; where the interconnected nature of policy is recognised and valued; and where social sustainability is a foundation stone.
It makes economic sense, as already a 50% reduction in gaps in life expectancy would provide monetised benefits to countries ranging from 0.3 – 4.3% of GDP.
Related resources
The Health Inequalities Portal is the information hub on health inequalities in Europe.
EuroHealthNet lays out its priorities for the EU to improve health equity and wellbeing by 2030.
The Wellbeing Economy model puts the economy at the service of what matters most: our wellbeing and that of the planet.
Related initiatives
CHAIN – Centre for Global Health Inequalities Research brings together researchers from across disciplines and regions.
Health4LGBTI aimed at reducing health inequalities experienced by lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgendered and intersex people.
The Joint Action Health Equity Europe (JAHEE) addressed health inequalities and the underlying social determinants of health.
Equity Action supported EU Member States to develop tools to address health inequalities within their policies.
IROHLA developed evidence-based guidelines to improve health equity in ageing populations.
VulnerABLE identified best practices to improve the health of isolated and vulnerable populations.
