Good health is a cornerstone of human potential, enabling individuals to thrive and actively contribute to societal progress. Yet, the quality of our health is influenced by a variety of factors, including our environment, economy, and social conditions.
In recent decades, the global community has achieved remarkable advancements in healthcare. However, significant challenges still lie ahead before we can reach our ambitious health targets. Collaboration among civil society, businesses, and governmental authorities is essential for success.
Establishing robust systems to prevent the spread of infectious diseases, ensuring universal access to medical services, and promoting healthy lifestyles are critical steps toward our goals. Comprehensive national health systems, global alert mechanisms, and the sharing of knowledge play vital roles in our progress.
How is the world faring?
Globally, we’ve witnessed a significant reduction in child mortality rates. In fact, 133 out of 200 countries have successfully lowered their mortality rates for children under five to below 25 per 1,000 live births. However, 60 countries—primarily in sub-Saharan Africa—must ramp up their efforts if they are to meet this target by 2030.
Moreover, maternal mortality has also seen improvements. Between 2015 and 2023, the average mortality rate for women during childbirth declined by over 13%, dropping from 228 to 197 deaths per 100,000 live births. Still, this figure remains nearly three times higher than the sustainability target of fewer than 70 deaths per 100,000.
- Since 2010, AIDS-related deaths have been halved, and a total of 54 countries have successfully eliminated at least one neglected tropical disease. Conversely, malaria cases are on the rise, and tuberculosis has re-emerged as one of the world’s leading causes of death.
- In 2021, non-communicable diseases accounted for 18 million deaths among those under 70 years old. Unfortunately, risk factors such as tobacco use, air pollution, and poor dietary habits remain inadequately addressed.
- More women are giving birth with the assistance of qualified health professionals—an increase from 80% in 2015 to an expected 87% in 2024. Nevertheless, around 17 million births in 2024 are still expected to occur without professional support. The disparity between regions is stark: coverage in sub-Saharan Africa is only 73%, compared to a remarkable 97% in East and South-East Asia.
- The COVID-19 pandemic has caused significant disruptions in childhood vaccination programs from 2020 to 2022, and global immunization coverage has yet to return to pre-pandemic levels.
One of our sub-goals is to ensure that everyone has access to basic health services at affordable prices. Despite advances in the number of healthcare workers and expanded services, glaring inequalities persist. Low-income countries and marginalized areas are particularly vulnerable due to inadequate funding and a scarcity of qualified personnel.
Source: UN Sustainable Development Goals report (2025)
What is Norway doing?
What does Norway excel at?
Norway boasts a robust healthcare system that provides comprehensive coverage for most residents. However, the UN’s Committee for Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights (CESCR) has pointedly criticized the country for not extending equal healthcare access to undocumented refugees.
The overall quality of life in Norway is high; child mortality rates are low, traffic accidents are among the fewest in Europe, and vaccination rates for children are impressive. Both life expectancy and the number of healthy years lived are significant for both men and women.
Air quality is generally commendable, positioning Norway among the European nations with the lowest risk of premature death due to local air pollution. The populace expresses a high level of satisfaction with their lives, which serves as an important indicator of mental health.
Maternal care is also strong, with few women dying as a result of pregnancy or childbirth. The rate of births among young girls aged 15 to 19 has seen substantial declines.
Sub-goal 3.7 aims to ensure access to sexual and reproductive health services for all. In Norway, all students receive education on sexual health, free condoms are available, and public systems provide access to contraceptives and abortion services.
Sources: Statistics Norway / Norway’s work with the sustainability goals – Status, challenges, and the way forward (regjeringen.no)
What are Norway’s shortcomings?
While many Norwegians report a high quality of life, a segment of the population feels that their well-being has decreased over time. Notably, Norway’s happiness index is lower than that of its Nordic neighbors, and the suicide rate has witnessed a slight uptick over the past decade. Mental health issues are escalating, particularly among the youth, with suicide remaining a leading cause of premature death, particularly among men.
Non-communicable diseases are a prevalent source of health issues in Norway. Although the daily smoking rate has decreased, it remains the leading contributor to disease and early mortality. Additional concerns include a high prevalence of physical inactivity, obesity, and unhealthy dietary choices.
Despite the accessibility of good health services, stark social inequalities persist. Individuals with lower levels of education and income frequently experience poorer health outcomes and a shorter life expectancy compared to their higher-educated and wealthier counterparts.
Sources: Norway’s work with the sustainability goals – Status, challenges, and the way forward (regjeringen.no) / Good health, the government (2024)
See also: Theme page about Norway and human rights
What is Norway’s role internationally?
Norway is a key player in crucial global health initiatives, particularly in vaccine distribution. Through its partnership with the global vaccine alliance Gavi, Norway has pledged NOK 10 billion to support childhood immunization from 2021 to 2025, making it the third-largest donor to Gavi’s core funding.
Additionally, Norway champions international efforts to promote sexual and reproductive health rights, emphasizing access to knowledge, contraception, and safe abortion services.
Norway is committed to strengthening national health systems while enhancing preparedness for pandemics. The goal is to establish resilient healthcare services capable of addressing climate change impacts, as well as the rise of both infectious and non-communicable diseases, including antimicrobial resistance.
Sources: Follow-up of the sustainability goals in Norway (regjeringen.no) / Norway’s work with the sustainability goals – Status, challenges, and the way forward (regjeringen.no)
What can you do?
Get Vaccinated
Protecting yourself and others from life-threatening diseases and pandemics is crucial, making vaccinations essential.
Donate Blood
It takes only half an hour to give blood, yet that half-liter can save three lives. If you’re healthy and between 18 and 60 years old, consider registering as a blood donor.
Engage with Nature
Fresh air, sunlight, and physical activity are beneficial for both mental and physical health. Grab a friend and explore a local park; a simple half-hour walk can significantly uplift your spirits and health!
Opt for Stairs and Eat More Greens
Low physical activity levels and high sugar and fat intake present challenges to health in Norway. Small daily choices—like taking the stairs instead of the elevator or choosing to walk or bike—can greatly enhance well-being. Opting for fruits, vegetables, and legumes also helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions compared to meat products.
For more information, check the Norwegian Directorate of Health’s dietary advice.
Support Others
Being a good friend means being patient and supportive toward those struggling with mental health issues. Mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety can be difficult to grasp without personal experience, but your compassion—whether a smile or a hug—can make a tangible difference. Seek knowledge to understand better, especially in the face of mental illness.
Find resources on how to seek help or support others.
Prioritize Sleep
Many young people struggle to achieve sufficient sleep. Good sleep quality is vital for daily functioning, reducing stress and enhancing mental health. Limiting screen time at least an hour before bed can promote better sleep.
Pursue a Career in Health
The world needs more healthcare professionals—nurses, doctors, pharmacists, and other essential personnel. Norway, too, requires more individuals in these fields. Educating yourself in health can lead to a fulfilling career helping others.
Get Involved
Transforming our society into a sustainable one necessitates broader changes than merely modifying our habits as consumers, although that matters. Major societal shifts are essential, and you can play a crucial role in this transformation through political engagement, whether in a party or an organization.
Various organizations, such as Mental Health and the Red Cross, aid individuals facing mental health challenges, their families, and the community. Join these efforts as a volunteer or a supportive friend.
Ultimately, meaningful, lasting solutions are often born from knowledge, collaboration, and organized action. Be an active citizen, and help us achieve our sustainability goals!