Joint statement: a wellbeing economy to meet the fundamental needs and rights of all

Created in collaboration with the EU Wellbeing Economy Coalition, EuroHealthNet and fellow signatories support the vision of a wellbeing economy for all. By creating creating a safe and just space, everyone will have the opportunity to thrive within planetary boundaries to deliver purpose, dignity and fairness in a participatory way. To protect both people and planet, we must transition from an economic system based on GDP growth .

This vision outlines 12 essential components needed to ensure we have an economy that meets the fundamental needs and rights of all.

Our current extractivist systems are causing extreme inequalities by fostering growth, maximising profit, and commodifying the commons. This has detrimental impacts on both the environment and society. Furthermore, the cost of living crisis has exacerbated inequalities, especially for marginalised groups and those living in poverty. Similarly, climate related disasters in Europe and the Global South, disproportionally affecting women and lower-income households. This rise in inequalities causes civil unrest and increases mistrust in governments and institutions.

This May, over 2000 people will participate in the Beyond Growth conference at the European Parliament. Hosted by a cross-party group of MEPs, this conference provides a prime opportunity to move towards a Wellbeing Economy.

With this joint vision EuroHealthNet and fellow signatories call for the European Union to place human and planetary wellbeing at the heart of its decision-making processes and structurally move away from an economic system driven by GDP growth. Participation, fairness, purpose, nature and dignity are the five core interconnected values that build this vision.

To build a wellbeing economy across the EU, we need to take a systemic, holistic approach and realise transformational shifts. We urge the EU to deliver the 12 elements outlined in the vision to build a Wellbeing Economy that benefits people and the planet.

Read the full joint vision statement here.