As 2008 draws to a close, Europe stands at a crossroads.
As we face the worst economic crisis of modern times, the Lisbon agenda's mantra of 'jobs and growth' has failed to deliver either in a sustainable manner. The consumption-driven model has damaged European economies, undermined social justice and increased the burden created by poor health and chronic disease.
We have an opportunity to do things differently. In 2009 a new Parliament and Commission will take office, a renewal of the EU institutions. The incoming team will have to develop a guiding vision for the next decade. They will need to draw upon the lesson that decoupling financial and economic goals from social indicators leads to failure.
Two crises – the global financial meltdown and the melanine-in-milk scandal – highlight authorities' critical responsibility to regulate the market to protect the public interest and public health. The legacy faced by EU policymakers is unprecedented inequalities within Europe and a period of uncertainty for many. The full impact of the recession is still ahead, but the heaviest burden will fall on those already experiencing deprivation, social exclusion and insecurity. Physical and mental health will be negatively affected, and some people will never recover.
Human health is affected by a wide range of policies. 2009 needs bold leadership and a renewed commitment to improving health and wellbeing on the part of the entire College of Commissioners. Only by addressing health issues across all policy areas can the EU improve the health of all Europeans. Delivering this vision requires the participation and support of stakeholders and the dedicated efforts of the health community.
