Physical inactivity remains a critical global health challenge. Addressing this issue requires moving beyond short-term programming toward strengthening the core competencies that help individuals stay active throughout their lives. Physical literacy provides a holistic framework to bridge these competencies, integrating capabilities across the physical (movement competence), affective (motivation/confidence), cognitive (knowledge) and social (inclusion) domains. As a prominent feature of “WHO’s Global action plan on physical activity (GAPPA) 2018–2030”, physical literacy is essential for creating active societies and people by fostering long-lasting healthy lifestyles.

The Physical Literacy Working Group provides a cross-sectoral platform to connect domains, such as health, education, sport and urban planning. Physical literacy serves as a cross-cutting theme that aligns naturally with the work of other groups within the European network for the promotion of health-enhancing physical activity (HEPA), which also includes the Physical Literacy Working Group, offering a unique opportunity for collaboration to bridge different life stages and settings. The Working Group aims to harmonize the application of the concept across the WHO European Region and support the design of movement experiences that promote sustained engagement for all.

The main objectives of this Working Group are:

• advancing research – strengthening the evidence base by improving assessment methods and identifying effective interventions across the life course;
• policy development – translating evidence into practical guidance and tools to help WHO/Europe Member States embed physical literacy within national strategies; and
• capacity-building – supporting knowledge exchange and workforce development for researchers, practitioners and policy-makers.

For more information about the Physical Literacy Working Group, please contact: hepaeurope@who.int.