We aim to raise awareness of the burden of avoidable death and disability attributable to childhood injury in Europe in general and Croatia in particular. As formerly common causes of childhood death have declined, injuries have become the most important single cause of death in childhood in European countries. Yet, there are large differences between countries, and especially between the eastern and western parts of Europe. The existence of these differences, reflecting rapid declines in some countries, indicate the scope for prevention. But injuries are low on the policy agenda for various reasons, including their lack of visibility. We advocated the development of integrated intersectoral policies underpinned by an effective public health structure.