This paper aims to discuss the relation between individual and collective autonomy and health promotion. In order to do so, it reviews the literature on the conceptual course of health promotion since the Ottawa Charter, emphasizing the amplification of autonomy as a guide for health promotion actions. It also highlights the importance of health promotion strategies in Brazil, which prioritize public policies in order to decrease social inequalities. In particular, Brazilian policies are addressed towards increasing individual and collective autonomy.
Health promotion; autonomy; Ottawa Charter; public health