WAEH represented global network at IAPB-discussions in Brussels
Eye health is fundamental to Europe’s future (and isn’t it for Global Future?!). At the invitation of the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness (IAPB), the WAEH joined last week in Brussels two high-level roundtables on the impact of eye health in education, healthy ageing, workforce participation, and resilient health systems. These roundtables are part of the Advocacy to Action: Europe 2026 series of the IAPB.
Representing the WAEH and its members from all over the world, Global Lead Maaike van Zuilen shared the perspective of eye hospitals, demonstrating how policy ambitions can be translated into better care through operational expertise, collaboration, and the experiences of leading eye hospitals worldwide.
Why is eye health fundamental to Europe’s future
- Healthy ageing: Europe has an ageing population. Good vision enables people to remain independent for longer, reduces the risk of falls, and supports a better quality of life.
- Education and development: Good vision is essential for children’s learning and cognitive development. Undiagnosed vision problems can negatively affect educational outcomes and long-term opportunities.
- Workforce participation and the economy: Good vision enables people to work and remain productive. Vision impairment contributes to reduced workforce participation, lower productivity, and increased societal and economic costs.
- Sustainable health systems: Many forms of vision impairment and blindness are preventable or treatable. Timely access to eye care reduces pressure on healthcare and social care systems while improving health outcomes.
- Equitable access to care: Eye health is an integral part of universal health coverage. Access to high-quality eye care helps reduce health inequalities and ensures that more people can benefit from timely diagnosis and treatment.
Two round tables
The WAEH was represented at the following two round tables:
- Childhood Myopia Roundtable – Enhancing education and Productivity outcomes
- Cataract Roundtable – Future-proofing ageing and workforce participation
We thank the IAPB – and specifically Louisa Syrett from the Fred Hollows Foundation – for convening these important discussions and are looking forward to continuing our collaboration to ensure eye health remains high on the European ánd global policy agenda.
Read more about both sessions in IAPB’s latest blog: https://brnw.ch/21x4bqZ