Abstract:

The Region of the Americas is a multi-ethnic1 multicultural region inhabited by indigenous peoples, Afro-descendants, Roma, and other ethnic groups, 2 making it essential to recognize their different health situations and needs. These populations often endure multiple forms of discrimination and exclusion, resulting in significant inequities, including high levels of poverty and violence, and consequently, the denial of their individual and, sometimes, their collective rights. While acknowledging the different situations and challenges of particular ethnic groups in diverse contexts, this policy is based on a recognition of the need for an intercultural approach to health and equal treatment of the different groups from the standpoint of equality and mutual respect, thereby contributing to better health outcomes and progress toward universal health.