1. Opportunities for input of regions at EU level: Advocating for healthy public policies Caroline Bollars European Week of Regions and Cities 10 October 2007, 14.30-16.30

2. Outline of presentation EPHA and its members What does the health community stand for The role of the health community Opportunities to input

3. About EPHA A network of more than 98 non governmental and not-for-profit organisations across Europe working on health and health-related issues EPHA's mission is to promote and protect the health of all people living in Europe and increase the participation of citizens in health-related policy making at European level.

4. EPHA members Health advocates Disease specific patient groups Academic researchers Health professionals (e.g. doctors, nurses and pharmacists) Consumer groups Environment organisations Development organisations Complete list of EPHA members: http://www.epha.org/r/14

6. Why be involved ? Article 152 in Treaty: 'EU legislates on public health' Implementation: Member States AND Regions BUT the legislative process does not involve regions (as an adviser) Who makes decisions: European Commission, European Parliament, European Council

7. Other people involved ?? 15,000 to 20,000 lobbyists in Brussels: 20% represent regions and cities 10% NGO's Networking and alliances are the ONLY way to make our voice heard - You are unlikely to succeed alone. Use other existing resources.

8. EU and Health – What is advocacy Monitor, analyse and inform - overview of EU institutions, tracking policy and political events Awareness raising policy-makers (EU-local) Networking - engage and consult (today) Visibility - raising the profile of your organisation, ensuring that your voice is heard Lobbying - getting your viewpoints across and providing detailed expertise (amendments for legislation, data and statistics, writing reports)

9. Conclusion: Lobbying and the role of NGOs in Brussels – Defining lobbying Grass roots lobbying:

10. Conclusion: Lobbying and the role of NGOs in Brussels – Defining lobbying Direct lobbying:

11. European Public Health Alliance 39-41 Rue dArlon B-1000 Brussels Belgium Tel: +32 2 230 38 89 Fax: +32 2 233 38 80 caroline@epha.org www.epha.org