We are delighted to announce that the European Association for the Study of Obesity (EASO) has been officially recognised as a Non-State Actor (NSA) in official relations with the World Health Organization's Regional Office for Europe (WHO Europe).
This landmark achievement represents a significant milestone in the ongoing EASO mission to reduce the burden of obesity across Europe. As an NSA in official relations with WHO Europe, EASO will have enhanced opportunities to contribute our expertise to regional health policies and initiatives addressing the obesity epidemic.
The new status strengthens our ability to advocate for evidence-based approaches to obesity prevention and management, while ensuring the voices of healthcare professionals, researchers, and patients are heard at the highest levels of regional health governance.
We look forward to collaborating closely with WHO Europe on shared priorities, including:
- Developing comprehensive strategies to address obesity across the lifespan
- Promoting obesity as a chronic disease requiring multidisciplinary care
- Supporting healthcare systems in implementing effective obesity management programs
- Advancing research initiatives to improve understanding and evidence based obesity management
Commenting on the status declaration, Kremlin Wickramasinghe, Regional Advisor Nutrition, Obesity and Physical Activity, WHO Regional Office for Europe said
“WHO/Europe greatly values the collaboration with EASO as an official Non-State Actor. EASO’s leadership in organising the recent World Obesity Day Europe event has played a key role in raising the issue of obesity high on the political agenda of the European Union and its Member States. Their expertise and commitment are instrumental in supporting countries to accelerate action on obesity. Together, we are making important strides towards achieving the objectives of the WHO European Programme of Work and the Acceleration Plan to Stop Obesity “
This recognition reflects WHO Europe’s acknowledgment of the society’s valuable contributions to public health and our commitment to working together toward healthier communities across the region.
EASO President Volkan Yumuk said
“This recognition as a Non-State Actor in official relations with WHO Europe marks a pivotal moment for EASO and the obesity community across Europe. It acknowledges the critical importance of obesity as a chronic disease and public health priority requiring collaborative action. Through this formal relationship, we can amplify the voices of healthcare professionals, patients and research scientists, strengthen evidence-based approaches to obesity prevention and management, and work more effectively toward our shared goal of reducing the burden of obesity throughout the region. We are honored by this recognition and deeply committed to the collaborative work ahead with WHO Europe to address this chronic disease that affects millions of Europeans.”
We extend our sincere gratitude to all EASO members whose dedication and expertise have made this achievement possible. Together, we will continue our important work to address one of Europe’s most pressing health challenges.