WHO European Region clears strategies on noncommunicable diseases and mental health and fills its Standing Committee seats

4 November 2026

At the close of its 76th session on 4 November 2026, the WHO Regional Committee for Europe cleared two complementary strategies. One covers noncommunicable diseases and well-being for the period 2028 to 2037, and the other covers mental health and well-being. The committee also elected Estonia, Finland, the Republic of Moldova and Poland to the Standing Committee, the small group of member states that guides the region's work between annual sessions. Portugal was elected to the Joint Coordinating Board of the Special Programme for Research and Training in Tropical Diseases. Dr Corinne Capuano, the Officer-in-Charge of the WHO Regional Office for Europe, opened the session on the Regional Director's report. The 77th session is set for 26 to 28 October 2027.