"During the last century average life expectancy has doubled, from 30 to 64 years. On one hand access to prevention, treatment, and care has increased. On the other hand the gaps have widened between rich and poor across and within countries. Population growth, urbanization, aging, unhealthy lifestyles, environmental degradation, low access to safe water, food and health services, along with social and economic disparities require multi- sectorial and global action.

Hence, public health policies need to go beyond the national level and require strong global institutions and coordinated efforts.

This Communication proposes an EU vision on global health, defines the guiding principles that should apply to all relevant policy sectors and presents a number of areas where the EU could more effectively act."

Source: European Commission, 2009.