Health in the EU Strategy for the Baltic Sea Region

The NDPHS is the Coordinator for the Policy Area “Health” (PA Health) in the European Union Strategy for the Baltic Sea Region (EUSBSR). The Strategy aims to address a selected range of challenges faced by the region, among them considerable disparities in health conditions, escalating environmental threats, gaps in economic development and lack of properly connected transportation links. These challenges are obstacles that prevent development in the region. The EUSBSR has three objectives: to save the sea, connect the region, and increase prosperity.

Policy Area Health – Strengthening population, well-being and crisis resilience. Health and well-being are essential to the Baltic Sea Region’s resilience, social cohesion, prosperity and sustainable development. Our region faces shared challenges, including demographic pressures, rising mental and physical health concerns, health inequities and varying capacities across health systems. Cross-border health threats, climate-related risks, and inconsistent emergency preparedness further expose vulnerabilities, while differing capacities and institutional approaches reduce coherence. Macro-regional cooperation supports shared learning, promotes healthier and more inclusive societies and strengthens the preparedness of people and communities for crises.

The Policy Area Health priorities for action:

• Strengthen community resilience through improved physical, mental, emotional and social wellbeing
• Strengthen institutional and stakeholder capacity to address regional health challenges

Read more: EU Strategy for the Baltic Sea Region