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Exploring the WHO EURO Healthy Cities Network Annual Business Meeting: A Roadmap for Urban Health

Update Strengthening Urban Health: The WHO EURO Healthy Cities Network Meeting The upcoming WHO EURO Healthy Cities Network Annual Business Meeting, scheduled from June 16 to June 22, 2025, in Bursa, Türkiye, is set to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of urban health. This year's focus revolves around workshops aimed at integrating One Health principles with climate resilience and lifelong learning. Attendees include city leaders, health professionals, and stakeholders eager to exchange strategies that enhance urban living. Your City Could be a Climate-Ready Hub A standout workshop titled "Climate-Ready Cities – One Health for a Sustainable Tomorrow" will present the ‘One Health 4 Cities’ initiative. This innovative project is designed to address the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health. By deploying tools like the One Health Canvas and Impact Assessment Tool, participants will discuss how cities, such as Lyon, are collaborating with EU partners to establish resilient infrastructures that adapt to climate change. The Future of Lifelong Learning in Urban Health The meeting will showcase another workshop titled "Co-Creating the Urban Future," focusing on the "Transforming Urban Health Through Lifelong Learning" course, developed alongside the UNESCO Institute for Lifelong Learning. This course aims to empower city officials and citizens through education on sustainable health practices. The emphasis is on capacity-building strategies that foster intersectoral learning, showcasing a comprehensive approach to urban health that considers various community needs. A Call for National Engagement Engaging national focal points in discussions on city-level capacity-building is critical. These engagements not only address immediate health needs but also prepare cities for future challenges. The Healthy Cities Learning Package aims to align with Phase VIII priorities, ensuring that urban health remains at the forefront of policy-making. The Relevance of Sustainable Health Policies As we face an era defined by climate change and urbanization, the negotiations held at this meeting will determine how cities implement health policies in response to global issues like pollution and disease outbreaks. The discussions encourage diverse perspectives that can lead to effective solutions impacting millions—highlighting how local actions can mitigate global crises. Local Stories, Global Impact Real-life stories of cities taking proactive measures to enhance health through environmental policy are a key highlight of this event. Participants will share successes and lessons learned from initiatives that address pressing issues like deforestation, ocean health, and more. These stories not only inspire but also provide concrete examples of what can be achieved through coordinated efforts. A Practical Approach for Everyday Life The outcomes of the WHO EURO Healthy Cities Network Meeting extend beyond policy—individuals can also benefit from adopting sustainable practices in their daily lives. Embracing "One Health" principles can spur local community initiatives that promote cleaner environments, healthier lifestyles, and greater resilience against disease. Awareness is the first step towards collective action, and everyone can contribute to making their communities healthier. Key Takeaways from the Meeting Participants will leave with actionable insights and tools that encourage healthy urban living and resilience against environmental challenges. Whether it’s enhancing green spaces, supporting local health initiatives, or advocating for policies that address the impact of global pollution, attendees will gain knowledge that can translate to meaningful changes in their own cities. Join the Movement As the world continues to grapple with environmental and health challenges, the WHO EURO Healthy Cities Network Annual Business Meeting represents an important step towards a healthier future. This initiative underscores not just the importance of policy but the power of community engagement and education. Let’s take inspiration from these discussions and actively work towards making our cities not just livable but thriving.