The World Health Organization (WHO) has certified Denmark for eliminating mother-to-child transmission (EMTCT) of HIV and syphilis, recognising the country’s sustained public health commitment.
WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus described the milestone as a major achievement, highlighting Denmark’s strong political will, integrated maternal care services and consistent investment in primary healthcare.
First EU country to reach milestone
Denmark becomes the first European Union nation to achieve this validation. The certification followed assessments by WHO’s Regional Validation Committee in June 2025 and the Global Validation Advisory Committee in August 2025.
To qualify, Denmark maintained transmission rates below required thresholds between 2021 and 2024, ensured prenatal testing and treatment coverage of at least 95 per cent, and kept new infant infections below 50 per 1,00,000 births annually.
Dr Hans Henri P. Kluge, WHO Regional Director for Europe, noted that Denmark’s strong antenatal care systems, reliable data infrastructure and rights-based healthcare policies were central to its success.
Strong health system and universal care
Denmark’s universal healthcare system guarantees equal access to screening and treatment for all pregnant women. Routine HIV and syphilis testing during pregnancy has effectively reduced mother-to-child transmission to zero.
Health Minister Sophie Løhde termed the validation a proud national moment and reaffirmed Denmark’s commitment to achieving full triple elimination by adding hepatitis B to the list.
Denmark now joins 22 other countries and territories validated by WHO for eliminating mother-to-child transmission of HIV, syphilis or hepatitis B.
Public health experts say Denmark’s achievement offers a strong model for other nations aiming to strengthen maternal and child healthcare systems.
Comments are closed.