Healthy Cities Phase V evaluation: further synthesizing realism.

In this article we reflect on the quality of a realist synthesis paradigm applied to the evaluation of Phase V of the WHO European Healthy Cities Network. The programmatic application of this approach has led to very high response rates and a wealth of important data. All articles in this Supplement report that cities in the network move from small-scale, time-limited projects predominantly focused on health lifestyles to the significant inclusion of policies and programmes on systems and values for good health governance. The evaluation team felt that, due to time and resource limitations, it was unable to fully exploit the potential of realist synthesis. In particular, the synthetic integration of different strategic foci of Phase V designation areas did not come to full fruition. We recommend better and more sustained integration of realist synthesis in the practice of Healthy Cities in future Phases.

National healthy cities networks: a powerful force for health and sustainable development in Europe

National healthy cities networks are the backbone of the Healthy Cities movement in Europe. They provide political, strategic and technical support to their members, are a national resource of experience and expertise in health development, and offer a dynamic platform for public health advocacy at the national and international level. Each national network is unique. Each one develops in response to the needs of its member cities, with the resources available and within its own cultural and legal framework. This publication has two parts: analysis of the multifaceted work and achievements of national networks across Europe, and a profile of each network focusing on its special features, successes and aspirations.