WHO is making a difference through health promotion

Abstract

The 1998 report of the World Organization (WHO) which outlines the WHOs achievements in its 50 years of existence and describes important current trends in health offers encouragement about the positive impact of health promotion on improving health status. In the new era of the WHO that will be marked by the leadership of Dr. Gro Harlem Brundtland health promotion will mature and broaden as an important strategy. Over the past year Dr. Ilona Kickbusch has shepherded the WHOs important contribution to global efforts to reinforce health promotion initiatives and has succeeded in placing health promotion high on health agendas at all levels. Brundtland has created nine new clusters in the WHO and the health promotion program falls within the Social Change and Mental cluster and will also operate in partnership with other clusters. Brundtland has made a personal commitment to the WHOs Tobacco Free Initiative which offers a perfect place to implement health promotion activities with their emphasis on people holistic health values determinants social capital outreach innovation and capacity-building. The WHO will also renew the Health for All goals including a specific goal addressing lifestyle issues. The journal Health Promotion International will continue to work as a partner with the WHO as it builds on the achievements of the past and increases its commitment to health promotion.