Project Syndicate: How to Achieve Health Equity
Eric A. Friedman, global health justice scholar at the O’Neill Institute for National and Global Health Law at the Georgetown University Law Center

“In 2015, the world committed to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals — a comprehensive agenda covering virtually all aspects of development — by 2030. But the world has yet to embrace the kind of deliberate, systematic, and inclusive approach that is needed to eliminate inequities that prevent billions of people from enjoying a long and healthy life. … [The health equity programs of action framework, proposed by the O’Neill Institute] could be implemented through national health plans or through national development, SDG, or social inclusion strategies. They would adhere to seven principles: Enable empowering participation and inclusive leadership … Maximize health equity … Health systems and beyond … Every population counts … Action, targets, and timelines … Comprehensive accountability … [And sustained] high-level political commitment … We have less than 12 years to achieve the SDGs. Without a comprehensive and steadfast effort to eliminate health inequities — the kind promoted by health equity programs of action — we will fail. That is why countries should urgently adapt the seven principles to their circumstances and incorporate them into their health and development planning processes…” (3/6).