emblem
Back to WHO/Europe home page

Violence and injuries

Road crashes are one of the main causes of injuries, especially among young people. Prevention can play a major role in saving lives and reducing disabilities. (Photo: Istock)

Violence and unintentional injury cause a significant amount of deaths, human suffering and disability in the WHO European Region every year, accounting for almost 700 000 deaths (7% of all deaths) and 14% of all disability-adjusted life years (DALYs).

WHO/Europe advocates to reduce violence and unintentional injury by promoting a public health approach based on evidence and multisectoral cooperation. It also supports Member States by:

  • providing data on the burden of injuries and evidence of what works for prevention;
  • helping them improve their capacity to strengthen prevention; and
  • facilitating the sharing of knowledge about prevention strategies that have proven effective.