Conclusions

Table 7.2 Some regional institutions important for policy development, implementation, and technical assistance

The key areas identified for regional collaboration have a clear rationale and deserve careful consideration. A consensus among countries that action is needed is the first step. An example of progress can be found with tobacco. All South Asia countries have signed the FCTC and most already have some taxation policy in place.

Moving toward harmonization of tobacco taxation in the region will remain a challenging task, although it can use the existing base of advertising bans and tax policy, to build on. In other areas less progress has been made, and leadership, commitment, and resources from countries and development partners will be needed.

Varying difficulties in implementing these policies and actions are likely. Developing most policies and strategies will entail engaging stakeholders outside the health sector (such as the finance ministry for tobacco tax policy, the education ministry for HRH training and skill building), and in many cases stakeholders from outside government (such as the food industry for labeling food products). Other actions, such as health technology assessment and surveillance, come mostly from within the health sector but will need to engage both public and private sectors and health professionals from many disciplines.