UN
The 53 Member States of the World Health Organization’s European Region have unanimously adopted their first regional roadmap for artificial intelligence in healthcare, marking a significant step toward coordinated digital health policies across Europe and Central Asia.
Approved during the 76th session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe, the roadmap outlines a shared approach to integrating artificial intelligence into health systems between 2026 and 2033.
The initiative aims to improve patient care, support healthcare professionals and strengthen access to essential medical services.
Key priorities include responsible AI governance, patient safety, data protection, digital infrastructure and the development of healthcare workforce skills.
AI technologies could support earlier disease detection, reduce administrative workloads and help medical professionals make more informed decisions. However, WHO emphasizes that technological innovation must be accompanied by appropriate regulation, transparency and safeguards.
The roadmap also seeks to reduce inequalities between countries with different levels of technological readiness.
By establishing common principles for responsible AI adoption, participating governments aim to create more resilient, inclusive and effective healthcare systems.
