Strategic (public health) foresight is important because it helps society and policymakers to anticipate future challenges and opportunities, rather than just reacting to problems as they arise. It can support being better prepared for emerging health risks such as pandemics, climate change effects, or new diseases before they become widespread problems. 

While the future is always subject to uncertainty, strategic foresight reduces surprises and helps manage risks more effectively. Therefore, it is good to apply a systematic way to look at the future.

The RIVM and the Netherlands in general have a longstanding tradition of doing foresight studies. With this handbook we wish to help colleagues inside and outside the Netherlands who want to conduct a foresight study but are not yet completely familiar with all facets involved.

The handbook consists of the following chapters: