Social Participation and Health Equity as Drivers…

This event, organized by Slovenia and WHO will convene global leaders, UN agencies, civil society, youth, in a dialog to:

• Showcase innovations and policy solutions that put health, equity, and wellbeing at the centre of decision making.
• Demonstrate how nations are translating the principles of participation, solidarity, and
  collaboration into practice in the pursuit of health, inclusive growth, and prosperity.
• Contribute to UNGA discussions and the upcoming Special Session on Non-Communicable Diseases, also building momentum toward the the 22nd Summit for Social Development, recommitting to the Copenhagen Declaration and aligning with WHA resolutions on social participation.

In the past five years, the world has faced unprecedented shocks, the COVID 19 pandemic, war, climate disruption, economic instability, and widespread misinformation , all within an increasingly aging, digitalized, and socially polarized society. Amidst this, people demand to live in healthy, safe communities, where wellbeing is central to policy, and no one is left behind due to social and economic insecurity, environmental risks, discrimination, or lack of trust in institutions.

Todays geopolitical, environmental, and social challenges require a just, inclusive transition driven by social connection and trust. The public sector alone is not enough , social participation, empowerment, and co creation are essential to meet the needs of all population groups, including those most vulnerable. Investing in public health and enabling conditions for meaningful participation in decision making and implementation of public policies delivers high social returns, contributes to more equal society, strengthens systems, and advances sustainable development reinvigorating the social contract for prosperous, healthier societies.