The Healthy Cities Programme in the
Islamic Republic of Iran: a role model
A national workshop was organized in Tehran in
December 1991 to introduce the Healthy Cities
concept. The Tehran Healthy Cities project was
launched in March 1992 and became the
cornerstone of the Healthy Cities concept in Iran as
well as the Eastern Mediterranean Region of WHO.
The project initiated a number of innovative
themes and activities, which had a major impact on
health and social sector. Following the
establishment of the project, 55 cities in 22
provinces have initiated similar projects.
In 1996, a National Coordination Council for
Healthy Cities and Healthy Villages was established,
with representatives from key ministries.
Simultaneously, the Province Health Councils and
District Health Councils follow the implementation
and monitoring of decisions taken by the National
Council, as well as providing support for Healthy
Cities and Healthy Villages programmes.
National Healthy Cities projects have had very
impressive results, and have led to the creation of
some 60 000 women health volunteers, 5000
community schools and employment opportunities
for unemployed young people.
Healthy Cities projects in Iran have made great
strides, and provide a model to be followed by
other countries in the Region