PUB - Publikationen an der Universität Bielefeld

The Discussion Paper "Closing the gap: Policy into practice on social determinants of health" informed proceedings at the 2011 World Conference on Social Determinants of Health about how countries could implement action on social determinants of health, including the recommendations of the WHO Commission on Social Determinants of Health.

It does not provide a blueprint, but instead lays out the key components that all countries need to integrate in implementing a social determinants approach. The paper aims to show that, in all countries, it is possible to put policy into practice on social determinants of health to improve health and well-being, reduce health inequities and promote development.

The final version of the Discussion Paper was developed following extensive consultation with Member States, academia, civil society, other UN agencies and within the WHO Conference Secretariat itself. A public web consultation was undertaken in May and June 2011, with almost 200 submissions received.