WHO and Joint Research Centre partner on behavioural insights for public health

The World Health Organization (WHO) and the European Commission's Joint Research Centre (JRC) have established a collaborative research arrangement aimed at integrating behavioural insights into public health programs and policies worldwide.

The collaboration will see the JRC assist the WHO in expanding its behavioural insights for health program. Specific focus areas will include non-communicable diseases, antimicrobial resistance, and leveraging behavioural insights to enhance the capacity of the health workforce.

JRC Director-General Stephen Quest stated confidence that incorporating behavioural research into public health initiatives will significantly increase their efficiency in preventing and treating various health risks and diseases. He emphasized the JRC's willingness to share its expertise in integrating behavioural insights into policy-making for international institutions.

WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus welcomed the partnership, highlighting the vital role of behavioural science in advancing global health. He noted the timely nature of the collaboration, as behavioural challenges impact public health across multiple areas, from COVID-19 protection measures to decisions regarding nutrition and antibiotic use.