Health 21 builds on the collective experience of the European member states. Refining the previous 38 regional health for all targets in the light of past achievements and new challenges, health 21 defines 21 targets for the 21st century. They are not meant as a prescriptive list, but together they make up the essence of the regional policy. They provide a framework for action for the Region as a whole, and an inspiration for the construction of targets at the country and local levels.