Launch of the European Advocacy Network

December 12th, 2024, marked a significant milestone for IAPB in Europe, with the launch of the European Advocacy Network. Co-hosted by IAPB and the Eye Care Foundation in Amsterdam, the event brought together key stakeholders from across the European eye care sector to forge a united path forward. A keynote address by Dr. Azra Herceg, former State Secretary and former Deputy Minister of Health in Slovenia, underscored the importance of collaborative advocacy to elevate eye health across the region.

The launch followed the network’s first in-person workshop, where an ambitious plan for 2025 was established. Central to the network’s mission is a commitment to prioritising eye health in European policy discussions, integrating it into national health agendas, raising awareness of critical conditions, mobilising sustainable funding, and improving accessibility and demand through innovative initiatives.

Health financing also emerged as a pivotal theme, with a focus on strengthening collaboration with WHO Europe to unlock EU health funding opportunities. Advocates emphasised the need to showcase the economic benefits of investing in eye health and the substantial costs of inaction.

Looking ahead, the network outlined strategic priorities leading up to the Global Summit in 2026 and beyond. These include the creation of a European Friends of Vision Group, set to launch in mid-2025 with the goal of convening additional political champions for eye health from across the region. Enhanced collaboration with WHO Europe will continue to be pursued through initiatives such as the WHO Regional Committee statement and an upcoming WHO led event in Georgia in early 2025. The group will also continue to work towards nurturing relationships with Members of the European parliament.  Additionally, updated data from the Vision Atlas and insights from the 2030 In Sight Progress Report will be essential to strengthen advocacy efforts and prepare for the 2030 IN SIGHT Nepal.

With a unified vision and priorities, the European Advocacy Network is poised to lead transformative change for eye health across Region Europe, ensuring its integration into broader health and policy frameworks.

Thanks again to Eye Care Foundation, especially CEO Bjorn Stenvers, for co-hosting the workshop and launch event.