Re-orienting societies and economies towards wellbeing offers a whole of system, transformative response to the multiple pressing agendas countries and the world are facing. A growing number of countries– at national, regional or local levels – are beginning to adopt a wellbeing approach. Wellbeing societies prioritise human and planetary wellbeing, and inclusive prosperity, over inequitable and unsustainable economic growth. The institutions of a wellbeing society – such as systems of social protection, the integrity of legal and political processes, respect for human rights, and commitment to social dialogue - provide foundations for all members of current and future generations to thrive within Earth’s planetary boundaries. COVID-19 has shown that countries that have invested in well-coordinated, strong and responsive institutions have generally been better able to navigate the pandemic to the benefit of their populations. This session will identify key dimensions of a wellbeing society, review the structural challenges and barriers to its achievement, and propose solutions and policy recommendations informed by the perspective of vulnerable population groups. Health promotion’s contribution to achieving wellbeing societies will be highlighted.