On behalf of the South Eastern Europe Health Network (SEEHN) Secretariat and myself, I extend heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Hans Kluge on his unanimous reconfirmation as the Regional Director-elect for the WHO European Region during the recent 74th Regional Committee (RC74).This re-election reflects Dr. Kluge’s outstanding leadership, strong commitment to public health, and dedication to improving the well-being of individuals in our region and beyond.SEEHN is proud to acknowledge the significant impact of Dr. Kluge’s work, and we believe his continued leadership will drive the WHO European Region toward new milestones in health equity and resilience. As Dr. Kluge begins this new term, SEEHN looks forward to enhancing our collaboration to build on past successes and tackle upcoming challenges together. We are excited to work hand-in-hand to advance our shared goals, from enhancing public health capacity to fostering greater resilience in health systems across the region. Once again, congratulations, Dr. Kluge. We wish you every success as you lead the WHO European Region.
October 23, Bucharest – The South-Eastern Europe Health Network (SEEHN) celebrated the official inauguration of the SEEHN Regional Health Development Centre for Health Professionals and Midwives in South-eastern Europe, marking a significant advancement in promoting excellence in nursing and midwifery education and practices across the region.
The new RHD Centre, led by the Order of Nurses, Midwives, and Medical Assistants of Romania (OAMGMAMR) in partnership with the Ministry of Health and SEEHN, is dedicated to supporting sustainable health system development and strengthening collaboration among SEEHN member states. This Centre will function as a vital hub for professional training, policy development, and sharing of best practices throughout South-eastern Europe, working in line with global health standards to raise healthcare quality and accessibility.
“I am honored and thrilled to inaugurate today, here in Bucharest, the SEEHN Regional Health Development Centre for Health Professionals and Midwives. This initiative is a pivotal moment not only for us but for the entire health network across Southeast Europe,” stated Mircea Timofte, President of OAMGMAMR and SEEHN Regional Health Development Centre for Nursing and Midwifery.
Dr. Mira Dasic, Director of the SEEHN Secretariat, highlighted the significance of this joint effort:
“The establishment of the Regional Health Development Centre for Nursing and Midwifery is yet another testament to the power of collective effort. As Director of SEEHN’s Secretariat, I have witnessed the incredible impact of our joint projects, and I am confident that this Centre will play a vital role in elevating the nursing and midwifery professions. It will provide a platform to share knowledge, develop best practices, and ensure our health systems are equipped to meet the demands of both today and the future.”
In a video message, Dr. Maggie Langins, WHO EURO policy advisor, expressed strong support for the Centre’s mission and work.
The event was attended by high-profile guests, including Nicolae Ciucă, President of the Romanian Senate, who emphasized the importance of investing in healthcare workforce development:
“It is essential to invest in the development of the nursing and midwifery professions, as these are the fundamental pillars of an efficient and sustainable healthcare system.”
Among other supporters, Professor Diana Loreta Păun, Public Health Department Coordinator for the Romanian Presidential Administration, and Professor Alexandru Rafila, Romanian Minister of Health, shared messages reaffirming their commitment to the Centre’s work and to regional health initiatives. The event was facilitated by Dr. Florentina Furtunescu, Member of the SEEHN Executive Committee.
Throughout the event, speakers underscored the Centre’s crucial role in addressing healthcare workforce challenges, with a special focus on enhancing data collection to shape informed policies and boost cross-border cooperation.
Dr. Alba Llop-Gironés, expert in the WHO Europe Nursing and Midwifery program, emphasized the Centre’s role in improving workforce data collection and related policy-making.
Rowaida Al Maaitah, Consultant to HRH Princess Muna Al Hussein, and Dr. Howard Catton, CEO of the International Council of Nurses (ICN), shared insights into the global impact of the ICN Nursing Declaration, which will influence the Centre’s future initiatives.
Roxana Hainagiu, Executive Director of the Regional Centre and Head of Communications at OAMGMAMR, outlined the Centre’s five-year development strategy, which details specific goals to advance the nursing and midwifery professions in South-eastern Europe, aiming to continuously elevate healthcare quality across member states. Following this presentation, Mr. Dragoș Iordache, a Centre expert, introduced the Centre’s visual and media identity, and participants received pins featuring the Centre’s logo. This official inauguration underscores a renewed commitment to advancing healthcare professions in South-eastern Europe, with robust support from both regional and international partners, and paves the way for sustainable healthcare progress in the years to come.
The ICN’s 125th Anniversary Celebration took place in Bucharest on 21 and 22nd of October 2024.
In honour of ICN’s 125-year journey, celebrating the invaluable contributions and unwavering commitment of nurses to enhancing global health, SEEHN supported the participation of its member states representatives.
During this celebration, it was delved into the profound implications of the 2024 International Nurses Day theme, ”Our Nurses. Our Future. The economic power of care”, exploring nursing’s challenges, and devising strategic initiatives to garner support and momentum for investing in nurses and our shared future. A declaration advocating for support in nursing and midwifery was presented for adoption and signed by present stakeholders.
This dynamic two-day event blended celebratory activities with meaningful discussions, showcasing and engaging conversations, inspiring keynote speeches, and chances to connect with respected global personalities and representatives from leading international institutions.
Her Royal Highness Princess Muna Al-Hussein of Jordan was the guest of honor at ICN’s 125th Anniversary Celebration.
Princess Muna Al-Hussein is a beacon of inspiration in the world of health and health care. With a legacy spanning over six decades, she has passionately championed the roles of nurses and midwives, advocating tirelessly for their recognition and advancement on the global stage.
Hosts
The event was hosted by the Order of Nurses, Midwives, and Medical Assistants of Romania, and held under the High Patronage of the President of Romania, in partnership with the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Economy, Entrepreneurship and Tourism, the Committee for Health and Family of the Chamber of Deputies and the Public Health Committee of the Romanian Senate.
This year the South-Eastern Europe Health Network (SEEHN) and the European Health Forum Gastein (EHFG) supported the participation of three SEEHN representatives in the EHFG 2024. Under the main theme “Shifting sands of health – Democracy, demographics, digitalisation”, two participants attended from the Ministry of Health, Romania: Mrs. Mihaela Gîză, Head of the International Relations and European Affairs Unit and the national focal point for communication or public relations, and Mr. Bogdan Vinersar, Director for regulatory and medical professional training direction. The third representative was Mr. Ardit Gabili, Adviser to the Minister`s Cabinet, Ministry of Health and Social Protection, Albania. This participation was made possible by the SEEHN Secretariat funding and EHFG support to strengthen cross-border collaboration in health diplomacy and regional public health efforts. Mrs. Gîză and Mr. Gabili also participated in the EHFG 2024 Capacity-Building Initiative, a 1.5-day pre-conference workshop focused on “Inclusive Dialogue in Difficult Times”. The initiative explored the topic of „Deep Democracy”, a facilitation method that emphasises the importance of minority voices in decision-making processes and is designed to bring out underlying motives and opinions to reach more inclusive and informed decisions that reflect a broad consensus and effectively utilise a group’s diverse perspectives. This experience will undoubtedly enhance the future work of the participants, enabling SEEHN to continue to have a profound impact on regional health cooperation, resilience-building, and promoting inclusive health policies.
The European Health Forum Gastein (EHFG) [https://www.ehfg.org/] is widely recognised as one of the leading health conferences in the European Union, and aims to provide a neutral and inclusive platform for the discussion and advancement of health, solidarity and equity in the EU and beyond. With the founding principle of the equal representation of all stakeholders, it brings together stakeholders and decision-makers from the public and private sector, civil society, and science and academia, who together form the four pillars of the EHFG with their specific perspectives and knowledge.. The participation of representatives from Romania and Albania, supported by the SEEHN, underscores the network’s commitment to fostering cross-border cooperation and knowledge exchange in the shifting sands landscape of health policy and public health.
The South-Eastern Europe Health Network (SEEHN) proudly supports WHO’s theme for World Mental Health Day 2024: “Mental Health at Work”. The SEEHN emphasized the critical role of healthcare workers, particularly nurses, in maintaining public health throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. This year, the SEEHN urges urgent action on nursing burnout, advocating for safe working environments and mental health protections. By prioritizing mental health at work, the SEEHN aims to promote resilience and sustainability within the healthcare workforce across the region.
The challenges of the health workforce burnout demand immediate, coordinated responses from policymakers and healthcare institutions. The SEEHN is leading efforts to advocate for safer, supportive working conditions, including improved mental health provision systems within healthcare environments. With mental health at the forefront, the SEEHN urges its member states to commit to creating workplaces where the mental health of all workers, especially those in healthcare, is a priority.
In addition to these efforts, last year, the SEEHN hosted a study tour at the WHO Collaborative Center for Research and Training in Mental Health in Trieste. This initiative provided healthcare leaders in the SEE region with direct insights into community mental health services, fostering deeper collaboration and stronger mental health infrastructures. Through ongoing engagement, the SEEHN calls on its member states to increase investments in mental health and to promote resilience among healthcare workers, continuing the region’s commitment to mental health as a human rights-based approach. The collective power of governments, communities, and organizations is crucial in addressing the hidden mental health burden by securing a healthier, more resilient future for all.
The South-Eastern Europe Health Network (SEEHN) and the European Public Health Alliance (EPHA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
This MoU marks the beginning of a strategic collaboration aimed at improving public health outcomes and promoting sustainable health systems in the South-Eastern European region. This partnership is rooted in a shared vision of fostering healthier communities through joint initiatives and capacity-building efforts in line with the UN Agenda 2030 and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The MoU was signed by Dr Mira Jovanovski-Dašić, Director of the SEEHN Secretariat, and Dr Milka Sokolović, Director General of EPHA. The agreement formalises a framework for cooperation between the two organisations, including organising joint events, promoting capacity-building activities, and contributing to the achievement of SDG 3—Good Health and Well-being.
Dr Jovanovski-Dašić highlighted that “this partnership is a critical step towards strengthening health systems in South-Eastern Europe and by joining forces with EPHA, we will be better equipped to address key public health challenges in the region, including promoting equitable access to healthcare, improving health resilience, and advancing health policy reforms.”
The MoU emphasises collaboration in several key areas, including:
Organising joint public health events and fostering actions aimed at achieving better health outcomes for all;
Promoting institution- and capacity-building projects related to public health, such as healthy environments, health service delivery, and digital health;
Joint contributions to the UN Agenda 2030 and the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 3, which focuses on ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all ages.
“We are thrilled to collaborate with SEEHN to drive forward our shared goals of health equity and stronger, more sustainable health systems,” said Dr Sokolović. “This partnership allows us to combine our expertise and networks to create lasting positive change in the region, improving health for everyone, especially vulnerable populations.”
This MoU will serve as a foundation for the two organisations to deepen their partnership over the next two years, with the potential for extension. The collaboration will also aim to facilitate knowledge sharing, support health system reforms, and promote the role of civil society in addressing public health challenges.
The first step to advance join efforts shall focus to strengthen Digital Health Literacy for All, in particular vulnerable populations in the South Eastern Europe.
About EPHA: The European Public Health Alliance – EPHA – is a change agent – Europe’s leading NGO alliance advocating for better health: https://epha.org/
The workshop took place in Bucharest on 29-30 August 2024, organized under the auspices of the SEEHN Secretariat, financed by the WHO Regional Office for Europe and hosted by the Order of Nurses and Midwives in Romania under the umbrella of the SEEHN Regional Health Development Center (RHDC) for Nurses and Midwives.
The Sub-Regional Workshop first objective was the strengthening of reporting on National Health Workforce Accounts, planned for publication in April 2025. The second objective was to harness this unique opportunity to build a network of dedicated focal points in the South Eastern Europe region.
The event was addressed by the Romanian Minister of Health, Prof. Alexandru Rafila, the Head of the WHO Country Office, Dr. Caroline Clarinval, the Director of SEEHN, Dr. Mira Dasic and the President of Order of Nurses and Midwives, Mr. Mircea Timofte.
There were more than 40 participants, out of which 35 in person and 8 online, from all 9 SEEHN member states, together with the SEEHN Secretariat, representatives of the partner-state Slovenia, and of the host organization.
On the first day of the workshop, WHO experts provided participants with detailed information on data registries and data-driven policies, focusing on the indicators included in the second edition of the State of Nurses Global report. During the second day, the participants discussed the challenges specific to each country and proposed concrete actions to improve existing capacities.
Among the identified commonalities across SEEHN countries, there are:
• Challenges in standardizing health worker definitions
• Recognition of the need for a select number of indicators to be routinely monitored
• Data flow issues between local authorities, the national level, and across governmental institutions
• Development of health workforce registries in some countries, with others recognizing the need to establish them
• The need for an enabling environment for digital transformation
• The importance of stakeholder involvement and coordination mechanisms in health workforce data and evidence
• The need for capacity building and training in data utilization and health workforce planning.
On the second day, Director of SEEHN Dr. Mira Dasic presented the initiatives and objectives of the network, as well as the operational status of the SEEHN RHDC for Nurses and Midwives. The President of the Order of Nurses and Midwives in Romania (ONM) Mr. Mircea Timofte emphasized the contributions of the organization at the national and regional level, followed by a detailed presentation by the Director of International Relations Ms. Roxana Hainagiu and the presentation of the visual identity proposals for the Center made by the ONM expert Mr. Dragoș Iordache.
In conclusion, the President of ONM Mr. Timofte informed about the official launch of the SEEHN Regional Health Development Center, scheduled for October 23, 2024.
Conclusions and the Future of Collaborations
The efforts of these two days will significantly contribute to improving the accuracy of health workforce data in SEEHN member states and will be reflected in the second edition of the Global State of Nursing report.
ONM as the host of the new SEEHN Regional Development Center for Nurses and Midwives in Romania remains committed to the development of a sub-regional strategy dedicated to the nurse and midwife professions, together with its regional and international partners.
SEEHN Secretariat thanks WHO and ONM for their continued collaboration and support, reaffirming its commitment to support and promote the development of nurses and midwives in the South Eastern Europe region.
Finally, this event was another opportunity to exchange and explore further regional needs and opportunities to build cross-country and cross-regional initiatives that SEEHN together with WHO shall support in future.
The South Eastern Europe Health Network (SEEHN) successfully organized its annual 47th Plenary Meeting, bringing together high-level representatives from member states, Ministries of Health, Directors of the Regional Health Development Centers, diplomatic corps and international partners.
The central theme of the 47th SEEHN Plenary Meeting held on 20-21 June in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina was “Strengthening Community Health Services”. The event aimed at providing a platform for robust discussions, sharing of best practices, and formulating strategies to strengthen community health services in the SEE region.
During the dedicated sessions, representatives shared their experiences and achievements in promoting community health services while addressing the challenges and potential solutions to their particular contexts.
At the same time, experts from various fields, including primary health care, epidemiologists, mental health experts, Ministry of health representatives delivered insightful presentations, underscoring the importance of cross-sectoral cooperation and active involvement of all segments of society to promote universal health coverage with people centered approach.
Participants underlined the significance of collaboration among governments, healthcare professionals, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders to address, promote and implement better community health services.
Discussions centered on developing and implementing effective health communication strategies to reach out to communities and individuals to empower and promote healthy choices. Experts emphasized the need for clear, accurate, and culturally sensitive messaging tailored to different population segments and the utilization of digital platforms to increase health literacy.
SEEHN Plenary Meeting also forward-looked at the strategic governance and future objectives for the Southeastern Europe Health Network. Key highlights included the signing of the Belgrade Pledge, strategic planning for the next four years, and the presentation of the SEEHN Presidency Report and SEEHN Road Map.
The meeting outlined the strategic priorities of SEEHN for the upcoming four-year period that would support member states and partners to effectively align their efforts and resources.
During the closed session dedicated to Member States representatives, a new Executive Committee for the next two years was elected. The member states represented at the new ExCOM are ALB, BIH, ISR, MDA, and ROM.
At the meeting, for the first time, the award, “Dr Alexandre Berlin”, was given to the Federal Assistant Minister of Health, Dr. Goran Cerkez, for his outstanding contribution and commitment to regional cooperation in health in South-Eastern Europe over the past 20 years.
The SEEHN Plenary Meeting concluded with a collective commitment to implement the strategies and recommendations formulated during the event. The meeting witnessed unprecedented engagement and dedication from all participants, highlighting their commitment to safeguarding public health and strengthening health systems in the SEEHN region.
SEEHN is pleased to congratulate Dr. Paolo Lauriola, highly experienced in Public health, TAIEX expert, SEEHN collaborator and friend on the election as EPHA President of the Management Board 2024. We wish EPHA and Dr Lauriola success in their future endeavors.
The Ministry of Health; the National Agency of Public Health of the Republic of Moldova and the SEEHN are proud to welcome colleagues from across the SEE region to the highly anticipated meeting focused on the Medical Licensing and Registration System of Health Practitioners.
This event will provide valuable insights on the Legal Framework and Related Experiences in the healthcare sector and will serve as a platform for participants to share best practices, discuss challenges, and foster collaboration in the field of health regulation.
“We are thrilled to host this important gathering and to provide a forum for meaningful discussions on improving our healthcare systems,” said a Dr Nicolae Jelamschi, Director of the National Agency of Public Health.
The meeting will feature expert speakers, panel discussions, and interactive sessions aimed at promoting knowledge exchange and networking opportunities among attendees. Key topics to be addressed include advancements in medical licensing, registration processes for health practitioners, and the importance of a robust legal framework in healthcare.
Dr Mira Jovanovski Dasic, Director of the SEEHN Secretariat highlighted that “one of the most significant challenges faced by SEEHN Member States is the brain drain of healthcare professionals, driven by the migration of talent to Western Europe in search of better opportunities. This exacerbates existing issues such as workforce shortages, disparities in healthcare access, and the need for continuous professional development. While other challenges include improving healthcare infrastructure and ensuring equitable access to services, addressing brain drain is critical. It requires strategic efforts to enhance working conditions, provide competitive incentives, and invest in the professional growth of healthcare workers to retain talent within the region.”
For more information and updates about the Regional Meeting on Medical Licensing and Registration System of Health Practitioners, please follow SEEHN social media channels.
Joint Statement On behalf of the South Eastern Europe Health Network At the 77TH Session of the World Health Assembly within the plenary discussion session
[1] DR. ALEN ŠERANIĆ, HEAD OF DELEGATION OF BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA, MINISTER OF HEALTH AND SOCIAL WELFARE OF THE REPUBLIC OF SRPSKA
Your Excellences, Director-General, Regional-Director, [Mister or Madam] President, Honourable ministers, Ladies and gentlemen,
I have the honour to speak on behalf of the nine Member States of the South Eastern Europe Health Network, who have associated themselves with this statement: Albania, Bulgaria, Bosnia and Herzegovina, the State of Israel, Republic of Moldova, Montenegro, the Republic of North Macedonia, Romania and the Republic of Serbia.
As Bosnia and Herzegovina finalizes its one year SEEHN Presidency, it proudly shares several significant achievements. Our primary focus has been on advancing universal health coverage and fostering people-centred health systems.
We strongly believe that strong regional strategic efforts are required in advancing the WHO global and regional agenda to achieve the SDGs 2030 targets and close the health outcomes’ gap between the SEE region and the European Union. In this context, the SEEHN in partnership with Slovenia organized a High-Level Meeting on Strengthening Healthcare Systems in Southeast Europe. The main outcomes of the meeting were enhanced resilience and preparedness of healthcare systems for future shocks and crises, spotted innovative solutions to address persistent health workforce shortages, and strengthened trust among various healthcare stakeholders.
Additionally, Bosnia and Herzegovina Presidency keyefforts included promoting mental health reforms, particularly in developing community mental health services, as well as those in post-conflict settings. We have also prioritized the mental health and well-being of the healthcare workforce, especially in the aftermath of the pandemic.
Over the last two decades, the SEE Health Network, through Bosnia and Herzegovina, has championed mental health advancements, particularly in community settings. Leading experts from the SEE region have visited and extensively discussed the world-renowned Trieste mental health model. This initiative was a collaborative effort involving the SEEHN Secretariat, the Central European Initiative, and the WHO Collaborating Center for Research and Training in Mental Health, Trieste, Italy. It provided a platform for stakeholders to exchange experiences, learn about challenges, and compare the progress and policies shaping mental health services in the SEE region with the successful Trieste model.
In this respect, it is noteworthy that our actions and documents align closely with the WHO Global Strategic Directions for Nursing, Midwifery, and the corresponding European region roadmap. The South Eastern Europe Health Network is committed to optimizing healthcare workforce performance and investing strategically in this sector. In line with this commitment, we are pleased to announce a significant development: commencing in October this year, Romania will officially host the Regional Health Development Center for Nursing and Midwifery, under SEEHN’s auspices. This center will also host the ICN meeting in Bucharest, advancing our regional agenda. At the same time, we express gratitude to the WHO Collaborative Center for Leadership and Governance in Nursing, hosted by Israel, for active support and contribution to strengthen the capacity of the nursing aimed at improved quality of care in the SEE region.
Furthermore, just a week ago, SEEHN Member States convened in Banja Luka, Republic of Srpska, Bosnia and Herzegovina to advance nursing leadership and discuss strategies to secure the future of the healthcare workforce and the provision of high-quality care. This meeting focused on addressing nursing and midwifery challenges and planning the next steps.
The past year has been marked by actions focused on data quality improvement and control, non-communicable diseases population-based registries; improvement and promotion of patients’ rights; pandemic preparedness, influenza surveillance, and immunization.
On this occasion, I would like to express our true gratitude to the World Health Organization and in particular to its European Regional Office and the Regional Director, Dr Hans Kluge for his steady support to the SEEHN.
Also, our sincere appreciation to the WHO Director General Dr TedrosAdhanom Ghebreyesus for the support to the SEE Region, in advancing health equity and health systems resilience in this turbulent world.
#SEEHN Secretariat Director Dr Mira Jovanovski Dasic had again the pleasure to meet, after two years, with Director of the Primary Health Care Centre Banja Luka, Republic of Srpska, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Dr Nevena Todorovic.
They discussed the outcome of the thematic meeting dedicated to the SECURE FUTURE OF THE HEALTHCARE WORKFORCE AND THE PROVISION OF HIGH-QUALITY HEALTH CARE: NURSING AND MIDWIFERY CHALLENGES AND NEXT STEPS that took place on the 22 and 23 May and the forthcoming Symposium „Prevention is the foundation for health” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6U-W9yKA1uk 24 and 25 May.
The importance of the #PHC strengthening, the reform #regional cooperation, the role of SEEHN and the forthcoming # SEEHN activities and expected results were also tackled.
The South Eastern Europe Health Network (SEEHN) joins the global community to celebrate the European Immunization Week (EIW) 2024, highlighting the critical importance of vaccination in protecting public health.
As the European region celebrates the 50th anniversary of the Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI), SEEHN recognizes the essential step made in protecting populations from vaccine-preventable diseases over the past half century.
The European Immunization Week serves as an important reminder of the life-saving impact of immunization and the need to achieve high and equitable vaccination coverage in all communities.
Guided by EPI principles, SEEHN reaffirms its commitment to support Member States and regional efforts in implementing robust immunization programs and ensuring access to vaccines for all.
Given the ongoing challenges of misinformation and vaccine hesitancy, SEEHN emphasizes the importance of combating misinformation and promoting accurate, science-based information about vaccines.
Through collaborative efforts with government bodies, health professionals and community stakeholders, SEEHN calls for sustained partnerships to combat misinformation and build confidence in vaccination as a cornerstone of public health.
SEEHN recognizes the invaluable role in promoting vaccination and looks forward to engaging with partners to promote a culture of vaccine acceptance and uptake.
As the global community celebrates World Health Day on April 7, the South Eastern Europe Health Network (SEEHN) reaffirms its solidarity with worldwide endeavours to ensure universal healthcare access.
World Health Day marks the establishment of the World Health Organization (WHO) and serves as a symbol to raise awareness about pressing health issues and mobilize action to tackle them.
This year’s focus is on advocating for the right to health as enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, emphasizing the importance of ensuring the availability, accessibility, acceptability, and quality of health services for everyone, everywhere.
Under the slogan of “My Health, My Right; Make the Right to Health a Reality for All,” SEEHN underscores its dedication to advancing health equity and upholding the fundamental right to health for individuals throughout the region. These words encapsulate the essence of our mission: ensuring that every person, regardless of their background or circumstances, has access to the highest standard of health care.
Today, amid multifaceted global challenges, from pandemics to environmental crises, realizing this fundamental right assumes even greater significance. We are confronted with the stark reality where health inequalities persist, where millions suffer needlessly due to lack of access to essential services. We must recognize our shared responsibility in addressing these disparities and strive towards creating a future where health is truly a universal human right.
Realizing the right to health requires concerted efforts across all sectors and levels of society. Investments in health must be viewed as investments in our collective well-being, and adequate funding must be allocated to expand primary healthcare services.
Healthcare workers play a crucial role in realizing the right to health, embodying principles of person-centred care and inclusivity. By dispelling myths and prejudices and addressing the specific needs of vulnerable populations, they serve as compassion and empathy in our healthcare systems.
Individuals also have a pivotal role in advocating for health as a priority, asserting their rights to access quality care and making informed choices that promote their well-being. By adopting healthier lifestyles and advocating for sustainable practices, we can build healthier communities and a brighter future for future generations.
On World Health Day, SEEHN calls upon governments, policymakers, healthcare professionals, civil society organizations, and individuals across the South Eastern Europe region to unite to advance the right to health and achieve universal health coverage. By prioritizing health equity, investing in robust health systems, and fostering collaboration, we can support a healthier, more resilient future for all.
As the global community observes World Tuberculosis (TB) Day on March 24, 2024, attention is once again focused towards combating this persistent threat, a global health emergency claiming the lives of over 1.4 million individuals each year.
Under the theme “Yes! We can end TB” World Tuberculosis Day serves as a unifying call to action against one of world’s deadliest diseases. Despite progress in the fight against TB, recent years have witnessed a concerning rise in drug-resistant strains, posing new challenges to global health efforts.
Worldwide, TB is the second leading infectious killer after COVID-19 (above HIV and AIDS). In 2022, an estimated 10.6 million people fell ill with tuberculosis (TB) worldwide, including 5.8 million men, 3.5 million women and 1.3 million children. TB is present in all countries and age groups. The highest MDR rates are found in countries of Eastern Europe and central Asia, where MDR strains threaten to become as common as pan-susceptible strains. In some countries, MDR strains account for up to 20% of new TB cases and well over 50% of patients with a history of previous TB treatment. Multidrug-resistant TB (MDR-TB) remains a public health crisis and a health security threat. Only about 2 in 5 people with drug resistant TB accessed treatment in 2022. Ending the TB epidemic by 2030 is among the health targets of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
While Europe generally experiences a low incidence of TB, the South Eastern European Health Network (SEEHN) remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting member states in South Eastern Europe, where TB rates remain notably high. In some areas, the prevalence of drug-resistant strains adds further complexity to the situation.
World TB Day serves as an important reminder that sustained, collaborative, and multi-sectoral efforts are imperative to eradicate TB. SEEHN reaffirms its dedication to working hand in hand with member states and partners to comprehensively address TB, with the ultimate aim of curbing the escalation in TB incidence and creating a region free from the burden of tuberculosis.
As part of World TB Day initiatives, SEEHN urges active participation from its member states in various endeavors aimed at raising awareness, advocating for increased investment, and mobilizing support for TB prevention, treatment, and care. While prevention remains paramount, SEEHN also advocates for heightened investment in research and treatment, while expressing solidarity with those impacted by the disease.
These initiatives are directed towards fortifying health systems, enhancing access to quality services, and tackling the social determinants of health contributing to TB transmission.
SKOPJE – The Transport Community Permanent Secretariat (TCT Secretariat), together with the European Commission, organises the TAIEX (Technical Assistance and Information Exchange) Regional Workshop on 112 and e-Call, on 21 and 22 February in Skopje, North Macedonia. This workshop fosters closer integration of emergency and communication services in the Western Balkans six and Observing Participants view to further integration with the European Union transport market and build up of the common regional market.
In alignment with the decisions of the Regional Steering Committee, the Commission’s services offered full support of advancing the implementation of the unique emergency number, 112, in the Western Balkans. This initiative builds upon previous projects in Montenegro and Albania, focusing on enhancing preparedness for accidents involving transport of dangerous goods.
The workshop aims to facilitate cross-disciplinary collaboration, particularly with firefighters and emergency responders, emphasising the importance of cooperation across different administrative levels.
112 and e-Call systems play a key role in expediting emergency response not only in transport-related incidents but also in natural disasters and criminal activities, thereby constituting a vital investment in public safety.
The TCT Secretariat extends its sincere appreciation to the experts from EU Member States and international organisations for sharing their insights at this workshop. Dr. Fotios Fitsilis from the Hellenic Parliament, Mr. Juha Suominen from the Emergency Response Agency 112 in Finland, Mr. Rafał Matuszkiewicz from the Fire University in Poland, and Andrej Fink from the University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Slovenia, will offer their expertise on various aspects of emergency response.
Acknowledging the significance of international cooperation, we are grateful for the contributions of Dr. Mira Jovanovski Dašić from the South Eastern Europe Health Network and Ms. Cristina Lumbreras from the European Emergency Number Association.
We express heartfelt gratitude to Ms. Adrienn Kiraly, Director of Directorate Neighbourhood East and Institution Building, European Commission, and Mr. David Geer, Ambassador representing the Delegation of the European Union to North Macedonia, for their support.
With this TAIEX Regional Workshop on 112 and e-Call, we aspire to delineate a comprehensive “to-do list” at the TCT level and for each Regional Partner and Observing Participant, fostering a safer future for all.
Accessibility of 112 services, alike those in the EU, should be within reach for citizens of the Western Balkans, too. We extend our gratitude to all 100 experts from the Regional Partners, Observing Participants, and EU Member States for their dedication to this cause, as well as our colleagues from North Macedonia for their invaluable assistance in organising this event.
An interview with Dr Mira Jovanovski Dasic, Head of the South-eastern Europe Health Network(SEEHN)Secretariat
What role can EU health policies play in strengthening the ties between countries in the SEE and the EU?
EU health policies can play a multifaceted role in strengthening the ties between South-Eastern European (SEE) countries and the European Union (EU).
Firstly, these policies can establish a framework for harmonising healthcare standards and regulations across SEE countries, bringing them into closer alignment with EU standards. This not only improves the quality and safety of healthcare services but also facilitates cross-border healthcare access for citizens.
Secondly, EU health policies can act as a catalyst for knowledge exchange and the sharing of best practices. Initiatives such as collaborative research projects and information sharing enable SEE countries to gain insights from the experiences of EU Member States in healthcare management, disease prevention, and public health strategies. This exchange of knowledge can lead to more effective healthcare systems and policies in SEE. We are actively fostering this collaboration with Romania and Bulgaria, both members of the SEEHN. These countries, along with others, aspire to join the EU family in near future.
Thirdly, EU health policies for the SEE region often prioritise health security and preparedness for public health emergencies. Collaborative efforts on issues such as pandemic preparedness, vaccine distribution, and healthcare infrastructure development empower SEE countries to strengthen their collective response to health crises. This collaboration not only enhances healthcare resilience but also fosters a sense of solidarity and mutual support among countries in the region.
In summary, EU health policies offer SEE countries a framework to align their healthcare systems with EU standards, promote knowledge exchange and best practices, and enhance collective health security. These efforts can foster closer ties between SEE countries and the EU, promoting regional integration and cooperation across healthcare and beyond.
Why is a network such as the SEEHN important in supporting countries to improve the health and resilience of their populations?
The SEEHN plays a crucial role in supporting Member States to improve the health and resilience of their populations in several ways:
Knowledge exchange and sharing best practices: The SEEHN provides a platform for member countries to share their experiences, successes, and challenges in areas such as mental health and vaccine inequalities. This exchange of knowledge allows Member States to learn from each other’s strategies and best practices, accelerating the adoption of effective health promotion and disease prevention measures.
Resource mobilisation: The SEEHN can facilitate the pooling of resources, expertise, and funding opportunities. This collaborative approach can help member countries access resources they might not have individually, enabling them to implement more comprehensive and sustainable health programmes.
Advocacy and policy development: The SEEHN often engages in collective advocacy efforts to promote policies and initiatives that address common health issues. This united front enables Member States to influence regional and international bodies for improved policies and resources in health promotion and disease prevention.
Technical assistance and capacity building: The SEEHN offers technical assistance and capacity-building programmes, assisting member countries to strengthen their healthcare systems, workforce, and infrastructure. This support is essential for implementing effective health promotion and prevention strategies.
Data sharing and monitoring: The SEEHN facilitates data sharing and joint monitoring of health indicators, enabling Member States to track progress, identify disparities, and continuously adjust strategies to improve health outcomes.
Crisis preparedness and response: The SEEHN enhances collective resilience by coordinating preparedness and response efforts during health crises, including pandemics.
Cross-border collaboration: In the context of the SEEHN, which includes countries in SEE, cross-border collaboration is particularly important. The SEEHN fosters regional cooperation, vital for addressing health challenges that transcend national borders, such as infectious diseases and environmental health issues.
In conclusion, networks like the SEEHN play a vital role in supporting countries to improve the health and resilience of their populations by facilitating knowledge exchange, resource mobilisation, advocacy, technical assistance, and data sharing. Beyond addressing health challenges, the SEEHN serves as a peacebuilding platform at heart, promoting cross-country collaborations in a region still recovering from past conflicts.
Could you give an example of a project or programme supported or promoted by the SEEHN or one of your members that has advanced mental health and/or vaccine uptake in the population?
The SEEHN has set up a Regional Health Development Centre (RHDC) on mental health, hosted by Bosnia and Herzegovina. Mental health is a top priority for Bosnia and Herzegovina, the current rotating presidency of the network.
In response to mental health challenges during the pandemic, the SEEHN implemented the “Mental Health and Resilience Training for Healthcare Workers responding to COVID-19 in SEE Region”, funded by Project HOPE. Approximately 8000 healthcare workers were trained on stress, trauma, and resilience concepts, providing a regional emergency response to combat healthcare worker burnout.
Additionally, the SEEHN conducted a study “Rapid Mapping Out of the Current Situation in the Area of Mental Health in the SEE Region 2000-2022: Towards Better Mental Health and Well-Being”. The study revealed:
SEE countries are home to almost 70 million people.
They face multifaceted challenges, including demographic decline, economic disparities, reliance on limited financing sources, and gaps in mental healthcare provision.
Developments over the past 20 years have focused on community-based practices, accreditation, standardisation of legislation and practices, and greater involvement of service users.
Future efforts should prioritise investments in capacity building, ensure quality assurance and monitoring, improve routine data collection, and harmonise legislation with international standards.
In the short-term, the SEEHN has also developed flyers for healthcare workers translated into Albanian, Macedonian, and English.
Regarding vaccine uptake, through our RHDC on Communicable Diseases, hosted by Albania, the SEEHN, has worked to enhance vaccination rates and improve accessibility and availability of vaccines for the SEEHN Member States markets. During the COVID-19 period, the SEEHN Secretariat, in collaboration with our RHDC, conducted webinars to promote vaccination and improve vaccination rates. Moreover, the SEEHN, Project HOPE, and the Center for Human Rights and Humanitarian Studies at the Watson Institute of Brown University, organised the COVID-19 vaccine-training programme for frontline responders in 2021. The training gathered over 150 frontline workers from the SEEHN Member States, providing a platform to discuss the latest science behind different, concerns and answers, vaccine rollout communications, prioritisation systems, and country specific guidelines. The training was expanded to reach over 1200 participants in the respective SEEHN Member States.
If you had unlimited funding to address one priority of your network, what would you choose to invest in and why?
One important area that could significantly benefit from increased funding is human capital, specifically in capacity building and the healthcare infrastructure to support it. This would involve investing in health workforce, strengthening it through training, recruitment, and retention of healthcare professionals, such as doctors, nurses, technicians, and other essential staff. Adequate staffing is critical for providing quality care and addressing shortages in healthcare.
Interview conducted by Anne-Sophie Travert, Global Health Policy Advisor, French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, and Lina Papartyte, Project Coordinator, EuroHealthNet, at the European Health Forum Gastein (EHFG) 2023.
WESTERN BALKANS – 11 February marks European 112 Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness about the European emergency number 112 and recognising the crucial work of emergency services personnel across Europe. As we commemorate this important day, the Transport Community Permanent Secretariat joins institutions, communities, and organisations across the continent in highlighting the significance of prompt and efficient emergency response.
Whether it is medical emergencies, accidents, natural disasters, or any other unforeseen event requiring immediate attention, 112 ensures that help is just a phone call away. The emergency services personnel’s commitment and resilience in the face of adversity are truly commendable, and we extend our deepest gratitude for their invaluable service.
In addition to recognising the efforts of emergency responders, European 112 Day serves as a reminder to the public about the importance of knowing and utilising the 112 number responsibly.
Mental health is a significant concern at the European level. While there are funding opportunities, there are also persistent inequalities between countries. How can these disparities be tackled? Mental health is indeed a pressing public health concern in Europe. Despite promising funding opportunities, we must recognize disparities among regions and countries. To tackle these issues, a collective and strategic approach is essential. First and foremost, we must acknowledge and understand the unique challenges faced by each area. More than a one-size fit all, a tailored approach is required. We must dwelve into the root causes, ranging from cultural to economic factors. Collaboration is key. European countries must share best practices, resources and expertise. By establishing a network of collaboration, we can leverage each nation’s strengths to uplift those facing greater challenges. This sense of solidarity will promote collective responsibility for the mental well-being of all European citizens. Moreover, targeted funding mechanisms are crucial. We must design grants, subsidies, and incentives tailored explicitly to regions and populations experiencing the most significant mental health disparities. Lastly, we must address stigma through robust educational campaigns. Promoting awareness and understanding will create an environment where seeking help is accepted and encouraged.
Moving on to South-Eastern Europe, what are the characteristics of the mental health systems in this region, and how can their needs be addressed? The South-Eastern Europe Health Network (SEEHN) is a political and institutional forum set up by the governments of Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Montenegro, Moldova, Romania, Serbia and North Macedonia to promote peace, reconciliation and health in the region. In 2011, Israel became the 9th member state of the Network. The Network covers a region with a population of nearly 60 million in 2020. Excluding Israel, these countries witnessed a significant demographic decline of 6.3 million people (11.1%) from 2000 to 2020. The economic context is characterized by disparities between GDP growth and declining populations, suggesting complex factors like migration and an ageing population. This economic context is crucial as mental health is closely linked to socioeconomic conditions. Mental health in the region faces challenges such as a higher stigma of mental illness, lack of systematic implementation of mental health policies, and non-transparent decision-making on resource allocation. SEEHN conducted a comprehensive study from 2000 to 2020 to address these needs. The results revealed disparities in mental health policies, quality assurance, financing, and workforce across SEE countries. While progress has been made, there’s room for improvement. For example, our analysis found that mental health policies and legislation exist in most countries, but there are opportunities for enhancement, particularly concerning national suicide prevention programs. Future efforts should focus on capacity building, quality assurance, harmonizing legislation with international standards, and fostering inter-sectoral cooperation. These strategies are crucial for effectively addressing the mental health needs of the populations in these countries.
What would be the essential principles of a European Strategy for mental health? The recent initiative launched by the Commission of the European Union serves as an excellent example from which we can derive a sub-regional tailored strategy. This initiative prioritizes mental health equally with physical health through 20 flagship initiatives and EU funding of 1.23 billion EUR. The guiding principles are adequate and effective prevention, access to high-quality and affordable mental health care, and reintegration into society after recovery. Adequate and effective prevention involves promoting good mental health through comprehensive initiatives such as a European initiative to prevent depression and suicide, a European Code for Mental Health, and the strengthening of brain health research. Access to high-quality and affordable mental health care requires significant investment in training and capacity-building, ensuring mental health is integrated into all policies, and improving access to treatment and care. Reintegration into society after recovery involves protecting vulnerable groups, especially children and young people, and leading by example internationally by raising awareness and providing quality mental health support in humanitarian emergencies. This comprehensive approach addresses mental health in all policies to recognize multiple risk factors affecting mental health. Concrete actions will cover a wide range of guidelines and include efforts to promote good mental health, invest in training and capacity-building, ensure good mental health in the workplace, protect children and young people, address vulnerable groups, and lead by example internationally in mental health support during humanitarian emergencies.
AWARENESS AND EDUCATION
How could civil society be involved in preventing, combating, and managing mental health problems? Civil society plays a crucial role in creating a supportive environment to address mental health challenges. Through awareness campaigns, educational initiatives, and advocacy, civil society can contribute significantly to breaking the stigma associated with mental health issues. Civil society organizations can collaborate with healthcare professionals and policymakers to create accessible and inclusive mental health services. Promoting mental health literacy, providing resources for early intervention, and establishing support networks empower individuals and communities to address mental health challenges proactively. Civil society’s engagement in policy advocacy ensures mental health remains a priority on the public agenda. By actively participating in developing and implementing mental health policies, civil society organizations can contribute valuable perspectives that consider the needs and concerns of diverse communities. Additionally, fostering partnerships between civil society organizations and health professionals can lead to innovative community-based programs that address mental health challenges at the grassroots level.
Are there examples of national good practices that could be translated to the South-Eastern European region? For more than 20 years the South-Eastern Europe Health Network (SEEHN) has been a key player in the mental health development in the region. Instruments like the Dubrovnik Pledge focused on strengthening social cohesion and mental health. The SEE ministries of health committed their governments to reform the old psychiatric hospital system as an essential component of their overall health system reform process. New community mental health centres were established to help people with mental health problems live better lives. A dedicated Regional Health Center for mental health was also established in Bosnia and Herzegovina to accelerate change in the region. A critical mass of experts is now playing a crucial driving role in the mental health field and reform process.
