The Copenhagen Declaration on Reducing Social Inequalities in Health

Abstract

The International Conference on Reducing Social Inequalities in Health was held in Copenhagen from 27 to 29 September 2000. Policy makers, researchers and decision makers at the community level took part in the conference. The conference brought into focus the problem of social inequalities in health and called attention to ways of reducing them by promoting equity in health.

Building on existing international agreements that access to healthcare is a fundamental human right we urge all communities to accept their responsibility for reducing social inequalities in health when documented and effective methods are available for doing so. These methods should be acceptable, participative and improve health for everyone. Healthcare, disease prevention and health promotion should particularly benefi t disadvantaged people.

The conference endorsed the Declaration on 29 September 2000.