The Netherlands

Regions

Policy responses

Health promotion policy is the responsibility of local governments, and in 2003 reducing health inequalities constituted a significant target of local policy in over half of the Dutch municipalities. The municipalities are supported by the governmental body (Inspectie voor de gezondheid), which sets frames and guidelines for these efforts.

Furthermore, The Major Cities Policy was implemented in 30 major cities in the years 2005-2009. It was supported by government funding of approximately € 25 million for 5 years. With the aim of reducing health inequalities in cities, the Ministry of Health collaborated together with the metropolitan area policy representatives in working groups on obesity, community approach, youth at risk, reinforcement of primary health care and social activation.

An overview of regional policy responses addressing health inequalities can be found in our Policy Database.

Good practices

Key actors

Please find below an overview of key actors in the Netherlands working on health inequality issues:

• Association of Dutch Municipalities

• Inspectie voor de gezondheid, Minsitry of Health, Welfare and Sports

Are you aware of any other key actors that should be added to this list? 
Please let us know!

Key resources

Please find below an short overview of key documents and resources (produced at regional level) addressing health inequality issues in the Netherlands. More publications can be found in our Publications Database.

• Guide to the administrative approach Socio-Economic Health Differences Policy development at local level

Are you aware of any other key resources that should be added to this list?
Please let us know!