Opening speech: Health in times of global economic crisis - implications for the WHO European Region

Good afternoon and welcome to this meeting on health in times of a global economic crisis. It is very nice to see so many health ministers and senior government officials here today.

We are living through a time of global economic crisis. And we are all to varying degrees affected by this crisis. No one is immune. We are here today because we need to address the uncertainties created by this crisis. We are here today to learn and share ideas.

During this conference we will ask; how does the ongoing financial and economic crisis affect societies and health systems? And even more importantly;; what strategies do we have to tackle the health consequences of this crisis?

Let me share a few thoughts with you;

As President Obama says, I believe it is time to act boldly and wisely. In actual fact, the crisis may provide a window of opportunity. An opportunity to rethink our health priorities. We need to organize our health systems in a way that maximizes health. And most importantly, it is about helping people. To help people lead healthy and prosperous lives.

We are living through a time of change. A time of demographic change.  A time when our populations are aging. A time where the burden of disease is changing. The number of patients with chronic diseases is rapidly increasing. It is my firm belief that in order to maintain the health needs of our populations we will need to adjust to these changes.

In this respect primary health care is of vital importance. As the WHO has stressed; it need to be revitalized. We must to remind ourselves of the importance of primary health care as it forms a key part of our health systems. It should ensure universal access to affordable health services.

We also know that primary health care contributes to economic development. Therefore, it forms a key part of the reciprocal relationship between health, health systems and wealth. And we need to remember; health is wealth. Investing in health is investing in wealth. 

I don’t believe that our challenges will be solved by themselves. Governments have a vital role to play. I hope our discussions here in Oslo may contribute to identifying ways and means that maximize health for all. I am looking forward to some important and productive discussions.

Thank all for your attention.