On the occasion of World Health Day 2026, the South-Eastern Europe Health Network (SEEHN) joins the global community in supporting the World Health Organization (WHO) campaign under the theme “Together for health. Stand with science.”
This year’s campaign calls for a renewed global commitment to science, evidence-based policies, and multilateral cooperation as the foundation for protecting and improving health for all.
SEEHN fully aligns with WHO’s message that science is at the heart of solutions to today’s most pressing health challenges—from infectious diseases and antimicrobial resistance to environmental threats and health system resilience.
In a rapidly evolving global context, translating scientific knowledge into effective policies and practice is essential. Evidence-based decision-making ensures that health interventions are safe, effective, and equitable, while strengthening public trust in health institutions.
SEEHN reiterates that regional cooperation and knowledge-sharing are key enablers in turning evidence into action, particularly in South-Eastern Europe, where coordinated responses can significantly enhance preparedness and health outcomes.
In line with WHO’s call to “stand with science,” SEEHN emphasizes the growing importance of health literacy as a strategic priority and a critical tool against disinformation.
The spread of misinformation and disinformation—especially in the digital space—poses a serious threat to public health, undermining vaccination efforts, preventive care, and trust in health systems.
SEEHN calls for:
- Strengthening population-wide health literacy
- Investing in clear, accessible, and transparent communication
- Empowering citizens to identify credible sources and make informed decisions
- Supporting health professionals as trusted communicators of science
Building health-literate societies is not only a communication objective—it is a public health intervention in itself.
The 2026 campaign highlights the importance of transforming scientific evidence into public policy through strong institutions and international collaboration.
SEEHN underscores that evidence-based policies are essential for achieving equitable and resilient health systems and calls for further investment in data, research, and workforce capacity.
On World Health Day 2026, SEEHN calls on governments, institutions, professionals, and citizens to:
Stand with science. Invest in knowledge. Build trust. Act together for health.
Only through science-driven, evidence-based, and people-centered approaches can we ensure healthier societies and a more resilient future for all.
