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PRODID:-//World Leaders Daily//EN
CALSCALE:GREGORIAN
METHOD:PUBLISH
X-WR-CALNAME:Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus — public schedule
X-WR-CALDESC:Public schedule of Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus (Director-General of the World Health Organization)\, via World Leaders Daily
BEGIN:VEVENT
UID:who-dg-20260225-0@worldleaders.website
DTSTAMP:20260827T045044Z
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260225
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260226
SUMMARY:WHO Director-General visits Jordan to recognize strong collaboration on health system delivery\, emergency relief and advancing mental health
DESCRIPTION:The Director-General of the World Health Organization\, Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus\, today concluded the first day of his two-day State visit to the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan\, underscoring the strong partnership between WHO and Jordan across the areas of universal health coverage (UHC)\, mental health and humanitarian health action.\n\nhttps://www.who.int/news/item/25-02-2026-who-director-general-visits-jordan-to-recognize-strong-collaboration-on-health-system-delivery--emergency-relief-and-advancing-mental-health
URL:https://www.who.int/news/item/25-02-2026-who-director-general-visits-jordan-to-recognize-strong-collaboration-on-health-system-delivery--emergency-relief-and-advancing-mental-health
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BEGIN:VEVENT
UID:who-dg-20260124-0@worldleaders.website
DTSTAMP:20260827T045044Z
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260124
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260125
SUMMARY:WHO statement on notification of withdrawal of the United States
DESCRIPTION:WHO regrets the United States’ notification of withdrawal from WHO – a decision that makes both the United States and the world less safe. The notification of withdrawal raises issues that will be considered by the WHO Executive Board at its regular meeting starting on 2 February and by the World Health Assembly at its annual meeting in May 2026.\n\nhttps://www.who.int/news/item/24-01-2026-who-statement-on-notification-of-withdrawal-of-the-united-states
URL:https://www.who.int/news/item/24-01-2026-who-statement-on-notification-of-withdrawal-of-the-united-states
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BEGIN:VEVENT
UID:who-dg-20250730-0@worldleaders.website
DTSTAMP:20260827T045044Z
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250730
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250731
SUMMARY:Paying tribute to David Nabarro
DESCRIPTION:Tribute to Dr David Nabarro\n\nhttps://www.who.int/news/item/30-07-2025-paying-tribute-to-david-nabarro
URL:https://www.who.int/news/item/30-07-2025-paying-tribute-to-david-nabarro
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
UID:who-dg-20250723-0@worldleaders.website
DTSTAMP:20260827T045044Z
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250723
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250724
SUMMARY:Timor-Leste certified malaria-free by WHO
DESCRIPTION:The World Health Organization (WHO) has certified Timor-Leste as malaria-free\, a remarkable achievement for a country that prioritized the disease and embarked on a concerted\, nation-wide response shortly after gaining independence in 2002. “WHO congratulates the people and government of Timor-Leste on this significant milestone\,” said Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus\, WHO Director-General. “Timor-Leste’s success proves that malaria can be stopped in its tracks when strong political will\, smart interventions\, sustained domestic and external investment and dedicated health workers unite.” With today’s announcement\, a total of 47 countries and 1 territory have been certified as malaria-free by WHO. Timor-Leste is the third country to be certified in the WHO South-East Asia region\, joining Maldives and Sri Lanka which were certified in 2015 and 2016 respectively. Certification of malaria elimination is granted by WHO when a country has proven\, beyond reasonable doubt\, that the chain of indigenous transmission has been interrupted nationwide for at least the previous three consecutive years. “We did it. Malaria has been one of our most relentless enemies – silent\, persistent\, and deadly. We lost too many lives to a disease that should be preventable. But our health workers never gave up\, our communities held strong\, and our partners\, like WHO\, walked beside us. From 223 000 cases to zero – this elimination honours every life lost and every life now saved. We must safeguard this victory with continued vigilance and community action to prevent malaria's re-entry\,” said Dr Élia António de Araújo dos Reis Amaral\, SH\, Minister of Health\, Government of Timor-Leste. A rapid shift from high burden country to malaria-free Since gaining independence in 2002\, Timor-Leste has made remarkable strides in the fight against malaria – reducing cases from a peak of more than 223 000 clinically diagnosed cases in 2006 to zero indigenous cases from 2021 onwards. Timor-Leste’s success in eliminating malaria was driven by the Ministry of Health’s swift action in 2003 to establish the National Malaria Programme\, a dedicated programme for planning\, implementing\, and monitoring malaria control efforts nationwide. With only two full-time officers initially\, the programme was able to lay the foundation for progress early on through strong technical leadership\, managerial capacity and attention to detail. Within a few years\, the country introduced rapid diagnostic tests and artemisinin-based combination therapy as part of the National Malaria Treatment Guidelines and began distributing free long-lasting insecticide treated nets to communities most at risk. In 2009\, with support from the Global Fund to Fight AIDS\, Tuberculosis and Malaria\, Timor-Leste scaled up nationwide vector control efforts through the distribution of long-lasting insecticide-treated nets and indoor residual spraying. Malaria diagnosis was also expanded using microscopy and rapid diagnostic tests at the point of care across all local health posts. Facing the challenges of severe shortages of health workers and doctors\, Timor-Leste made investments and developed its three-tier health system – comprising national hospitals\, reference hospitals\, community health centers (CHCs)\, and health posts – to ensure most residents can access care within an hour's walk. Additionally\, citizens are provided with free health services at the point of care\, as part of the government’s policy on free universal health care. Monthly mobile clinics and community outreach programmes further enhance health services in rural areas. Timor-Leste’s success in combating malaria highlights the importance of country leadership and strong collaboration between the Ministry of Health\, WHO\, local communities\, non-governmental organizations\, donors\, and multiple government sectors. A real-time integrated case-based surveillance system ensures rapid data collection and response\, while trained health workers ensure timely detection and screening of malaria cases\, including at borders. These integrated efforts have paved the way for the country to be officially certified malaria-free. "Timor-Leste’s malaria-free certification is a defining national triumph – driven by bold leadership\, tireless efforts of health workers\, and the resolve of its people. As a young nation\, Timor-Leste stayed focused – testing\, treating\, and investigating swiftly. Ending transmission and maintaining zero deaths takes more than science\; it takes grit. This victory protects generations\, present and future\, and shows what a determined country can achieve\,” said Dr Arvind Mathur\, WHO Representative to Timor-Leste. Note to the editor WHO malaria-free certification The final decision on awarding a malaria-free certification is made by the WHO Director-General\, based on a recommendation by the Technical Advisory Group on Malaria Elimination and Certification and validation from the Malaria Policy Advisory Group. More on WHO’s malaria-free certification process .\n\nhttps://www.who.int/news/item/24-07-2025-timor-leste-certified-malaria-free-by-who
URL:https://www.who.int/news/item/24-07-2025-timor-leste-certified-malaria-free-by-who
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
UID:who-dg-20250524-0@worldleaders.website
DTSTAMP:20260827T045044Z
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250524
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250525
SUMMARY:African Union and World Health Organization renew strategic partnership to drive impact and strengthen health systems in Africa
DESCRIPTION:The World Health Organization (WHO) and the African Union (AU) Commission renewed their longstanding strategic partnership today with the signing of an updated Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on the sidelines of the 78th World Health Assembly in Geneva. This renewed agreement reaffirms the joint commitment to advancing health security\, universal health coverage\, and sustainable development across the African continent at a time of unprecedented financial challenges in the global health landscape. It further underscores the African Union’s leadership in fostering collective action\, inclusive partnerships\, and regional resilience\, and positions the Department of Health\, Humanitarian Affairs\, and Social Development of the AU Commission at the heart of the continent’s health policy implementation efforts. The agreement was signed by Her Excellency Ambassador Amma Adomaa Twum-Amoah\, Commissioner for Health\, Humanitarian Affairs and Social Development\, on behalf of His Excellency Mahmoud Ali Youssouf\, Chairperson of the African Union Commission\, and Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus\, WHO Director-General. It marks a defining moment for primary health care and universal health coverage. Commissioner Twum-Amoah emphasized the strategic importance of the agreement and the AU’s leadership in shaping Africa’s health landscape: “This Agreement marks a new chapter in AU–WHO cooperation. By working together more closely\, we can better respond to the health needs of our populations and ensure that no one is left behind. The African Union values WHO’s central and leading role in global health and looks forward to deepening this strategic partnership in support of our shared goals. We need to move from budgeting for survival to planning for health sovereignty\,” she added. Building on the foundation of the 2019 MoU\, the renewed agreement streamlines and strengthens collaboration across all AU entities. It aligns efforts in support of Africa’s health priorities and sets the stage for enhanced cooperation between WHO and the AU. It also reaffirms WHO’s central technical and normative leadership role in global and regional health\, and its commitment to supporting the AU and its institutions in achieving health-related Sustainable Development Goals. “This renewed agreement comes at a critical time\, as cuts to bilateral aid imperil the health of millions in Africa\,” said Dr Tedros. “It reflects our determination to translate our partnership into tangible results for the people of Africa\, and support countries to leave behind the era of aid dependency and transition to sustainable self-reliance. We are proud to stand with the African Union in driving forward the health priorities of the continent.” The Memorandum outlines five key areas of collaboration: health systems strengthening : including regulatory harmonization\, support for local pharmaceutical manufacturing\, traditional medicine\, domestic health financing\, workforce development\, and digital health innovation\; reproductive\, maternal\, neonatal\, child\, and adolescent health (RMNCAH) : with continued support for the Campaign on Accelerated Reduction of Maternal Mortality in Africa (CARMMA Plus 2021–2030) and advancement of the reviewed Addis Ababa Declaration on Immunization (ADi)\; disease prevention and control : supporting the implementation of AU frameworks on communicable and noncommunicable diseases\, including efforts to end AIDS\, tuberculosis\, and malaria\; eliminate neglected tropical diseases (NTDs)\; and address the burden of viral hepatitis in line with WHO strategies\; nutrition and food security : strengthening the nutrition agenda through implementation of the Africa Nutrition Strategy 2015–2025 and related WHO strategies\; and health in emergency settings : by strengthening joint responses to humanitarian crises\, conflicts\, and climate-related emergencies. The timing of the renewed agreement is significant. It reflects the African Union’s elevated voice in global health governance – bolstered by its G20 membership – and highlights WHO’s ongoing key role as a trusted technical and operational partner. The renewed MoU marks new momentum for regional and multilateral cooperation to address Africa’s most pressing health challenges and deliver meaningful\, lasting results on the continent. For further information: Professor Julio Rakotonirina | Director | Department of Health\, Humanitarian Affairs and Social Development | African Union Commission | E-mail JulioR@africa-union.org Ms Stéphanie Seydoux | Director | DG Envoy for Multilateral Affairs| World Health Organization| E-mail seydouxs@who.int\n\nhttps://www.who.int/news/item/24-05-2025-world-health-organization-and-african-union-renew-strategic-partnership-to-drive-impact-and-strengthen-health-systems-in-africa
URL:https://www.who.int/news/item/24-05-2025-world-health-organization-and-african-union-renew-strategic-partnership-to-drive-impact-and-strengthen-health-systems-in-africa
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
UID:who-dg-20250519-0@worldleaders.website
DTSTAMP:20260827T045044Z
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250519
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250520
SUMMARY:WHO’s strategic engagement with philanthropies: advancing global health and resilient health systems
DESCRIPTION:Philanthropic support plays a vital role in enabling countries to build stronger health systems and advance towards health equity. From vaccine equity and pandemic preparedness to primary health care\, the contributions of philanthropic partners help drive progress across WHO’s key priorities. The importance of philanthropic support was underscored by Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus\, WHO Director-General\, in his recent remarks to the Philanthropy Asia Summit\, held in Singapore on 5–7 May 2025. In his remarks\, he expressed his appreciation to the Temasek Foundation and the Philanthropy Asia Alliance for organizing the Summit while highlighting the importance of philanthropy in strengthening global health\, supporting country self-reliance\, and partnering with WHO to address health challenges in an increasingly turbulent world. At the Summit\, Dr Tedros thanked His Excellency President Tharman and Singapore\, for its leadership in global health and its support to WHO. Dr Tedros stated that Singapore and the Temasek Foundation were amongst the first to pledge support to WHO’s Investment Round.“We look forward to your continued leadership and partnership as we work together to realize WHO’s founding vision: the highest attainable standard of health – not as a luxury for some\, but a right for all”\, said Dr Tedros. During the Investment Round\, WHO has sought to expand its donor base\, including by engaging strategically with philanthropic organizations. As Dr Tedros noted\, partnerships with philanthropies help countries to strengthen essential health services and make sustainable progress towards universal health coverage. Philanthropic actors play a vital role in improving global health outcomes\, providing significant resources and expertise needed to build stronger and more accessible health-care systems. Investments made by philanthropic partners often complement and amplify the work of governments\, international organizations and other stakeholders in the global health community. Philanthropy can be particularly effective in supporting innovative or high-risk research that may not be funded though more traditional funding sources. Philanthropic actors are effective partners when it comes to raising awareness and advocating for policies to improve global health outcomes\, address health disparities and promote health equity. Looking ahead\, philanthropic collaboration will remain central to achieving the goals outlined in WHO’s Fourteenth General Programme of Work. Developing strong partnerships with philanthropic actors allows WHO to leverage the strengths of a range of global health players to bring better health to people and maximize impact.\n\nhttps://www.who.int/news/item/19-05-2025-who-s-strategic-engagement-with-philanthropies-advancing-global-health-and-resilient-health-systems
URL:https://www.who.int/news/item/19-05-2025-who-s-strategic-engagement-with-philanthropies-advancing-global-health-and-resilient-health-systems
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BEGIN:VEVENT
UID:who-dg-20250410-0@worldleaders.website
DTSTAMP:20260827T045044Z
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250410
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250411
SUMMARY:Worldwide rally for maternal and newborn health marks World Health Day 2025
DESCRIPTION:On the occasion of the World Health Day 2025 dedicated to the theme of Healthier beginnings\, hopeful futures\, over 100 global WHO offices have organized wide-ranging public advocacy actions in collaboration with Member States\, communities\, health workers\, partner and donor agencies and civil society organizations.\n\nhttps://www.who.int/news/item/10-04-2025-worldwide-rally-for-maternal-and-newborn-health-marks-world-health-day-2025
URL:https://www.who.int/news/item/10-04-2025-worldwide-rally-for-maternal-and-newborn-health-marks-world-health-day-2025
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BEGIN:VEVENT
UID:who-dg-20250401-0@worldleaders.website
DTSTAMP:20260827T045044Z
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250401
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250402
SUMMARY:Strengthening public health across Lebanon with EIB Global
DESCRIPTION:Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus\, Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO)\, and Thomas Östros\, Vice-President of the European Investment Bank (EIB Global)\, met at the EIB Group Forum in Luxembourg and signed an agreement for a €10 million grant to strengthen public health across Lebanon. The initiative will re-establish Lebanon's Central Public Health Laboratory and prioritize medication provision and healthcare support to over 50 000 people with chronic diseases like diabetes\, cardiovascular issues\, and cancer\n\nhttps://www.who.int/news/item/06-03-2025-strengthening-public-health-across-lebanon-with-eib-global
URL:https://www.who.int/news/item/06-03-2025-strengthening-public-health-across-lebanon-with-eib-global
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BEGIN:VEVENT
UID:who-dg-20250311-0@worldleaders.website
DTSTAMP:20260827T045044Z
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250311
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250312
SUMMARY:Frank\, in-depth discussion as Belgium and WHO map ahead priorities for collaboration
DESCRIPTION:In a three-day strategic dialogue\, Belgium and WHO reviewed progress in their longstanding partnership\, and agreed to further boost their collaboration on universal health coverage\, health-systems strengthening and equitable access to essential vaccines\, medicines and health technologies. The Belgian delegation – headed by H.E. Christophe Payot\, Ambassador of Belgium to the United Nations and other international organizations in Geneva – discussed issues of strategic importance\, exchanged views on how to smoothly align WHO strategic directions and Belgium's development cooperation priorities in the context of an evolving global health landscape.\n\nhttps://www.who.int/news/item/11-03-2025-frank--in-depth-discussion-as-belgium-and-who-map-ahead-priorities-for-collaboration
URL:https://www.who.int/news/item/11-03-2025-frank--in-depth-discussion-as-belgium-and-who-map-ahead-priorities-for-collaboration
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
UID:who-dg-20250307-0@worldleaders.website
DTSTAMP:20260827T045044Z
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250307
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250308
SUMMARY:WHO and Switzerland cement cooperation until 2028
DESCRIPTION:WHO and Switzerland have announced the renewal of their cooperation strategy for the period 2024-2028. In 2013\, Switzerland became the first high-income country in the WHO European Region to pilot a cooperation strategy with WHO (hereafter referred to as the WHO-Switzerland Cooperation Strategy). In 2022\, WHO and Switzerland jointly decided to update and renew this cooperation strategy\, which was done on 4 March 2025 at the Regional Office of the WHO in Copenhagen\, Denmark.\n\nhttps://www.who.int/news/item/07-03-2025-who-and-switzerland-cement-cooperation-until-2028
URL:https://www.who.int/news/item/07-03-2025-who-and-switzerland-cement-cooperation-until-2028
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
UID:who-dg-20250306-0@worldleaders.website
DTSTAMP:20260827T045044Z
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250306
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250307
SUMMARY:WHO and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia sign agreements in support of health priorities
DESCRIPTION:The Riyadh International Humanitarian Forum 2025 was a significant event that underscored the continued partnership between WHO and KSrelief\, as well as with other international partners to address critical humanitarian health crises. The agreements made during the forum are pivotal in combating diseases like malaria\, cholera\, and polio\, and ensuring better healthcare for displaced populations. The forum also highlighted Saudi Arabia’s ongoing commitment to global humanitarian efforts\, reaffirming its leadership role in tackling some of the world’s pressing health crises.\n\nhttps://www.who.int/news/item/24-02-2025-who-and-the-kingdom-of-saudi-arabia-sign-agreements-in-support-of-health-priorities
URL:https://www.who.int/news/item/24-02-2025-who-and-the-kingdom-of-saudi-arabia-sign-agreements-in-support-of-health-priorities
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BEGIN:VEVENT
UID:who-dg-20250121-0@worldleaders.website
DTSTAMP:20260827T045044Z
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250121
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250122
SUMMARY:WHO comments on United States’ announcement of intent to withdraw
DESCRIPTION:The World Health Organization regrets the announcement that the United States of America intends to withdraw from the organization.\n\nhttps://www.who.int/news/item/21-01-2025-who-comments-on-united-states--announcement-of-intent-to-withdraw
URL:https://www.who.int/news/item/21-01-2025-who-comments-on-united-states--announcement-of-intent-to-withdraw
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
UID:who-dg-20241223-0@worldleaders.website
DTSTAMP:20260827T045044Z
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20241223
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20241224
SUMMARY:Luxembourg and WHO sign two strategic agreements
DESCRIPTION:A Strategic Partnership Framework (SPF) with the Ministry of Development Cooperation and Humanitarian Affairs and multiyear agreement with the Ministry of Health and Social Safety was signed on 20 December 2024. By signing two new partnership agreements\, Luxembourg reaffirmed its continued support for WHO to fulfill a shared mission to promote\, provide and protect health.\n\nhttps://www.who.int/news/item/23-12-2024-luxembourg-and-who-sign-two-strategic-agreements
URL:https://www.who.int/news/item/23-12-2024-luxembourg-and-who-sign-two-strategic-agreements
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
UID:who-dg-20241031-0@worldleaders.website
DTSTAMP:20260827T045044Z
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20241031
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20241101
SUMMARY:G20 health ministers rally support for WHO’s Investment Round
DESCRIPTION:Ministers of Health expressed their support for WHO's Investment Round during a G20 meeting chaired by Brazil held today in Rio de Janeiro.\n\nhttps://www.who.int/news/item/01-11-2024-g20-health-ministers-rally-support-for-who-s-investment-round
URL:https://www.who.int/news/item/01-11-2024-g20-health-ministers-rally-support-for-who-s-investment-round
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
UID:who-dg-20241017-0@worldleaders.website
DTSTAMP:20260827T045044Z
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20241017
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20241018
SUMMARY:Signing ceremony for contribution agreements between WHO and France
DESCRIPTION:Geneva 17 October 2024 – This afternoon\, His Excellency Mr Jérôme Bonnafont\, Permanent Representative of France to the United Nations in Geneva\, and WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus met in the WHO headquarters for the signing of seven contribution agreements. The contribution totalling €24 million comes through the Ministry of Europe & Foreign Affairs. It fits in the France–WHO Framework Agreement for 2020 to 2025\, which provides both a strategic framework for engagement\, aligned with WHO priorities\, while providing legal\, administrative and financial instruments for operationalizing collaboration. This latest contribution includes a generous €4.5 million in fully flexible voluntary funds for the Core Voluntary Contributions Account (CVCA). Additionally\, France will support key areas of WHO’s work\, addressing some of the most pressing health challenges\, including non-communicable diseases (NCDs)\, urban health labs\, One Health\, funding for the WHO Contingency Fund for Emergencies (CFE)\, and several emergencies\, such as the WHO response in Gaza\, response to cholera outbreaks and mental health support in Ukraine. France will also continue to support the WHO emergencies centre in Lyon which is playing a crucial role in preparedness and response to epidemics. Ambassador Jérôme Bonnafont underscored the importance of this collaboration: “France remains deeply committed to supporting the World Health Organization in its efforts to tackle critical global health challenges. These agreements reflect our shared priorities of promoting health equity\, responding to emergencies\, and strengthening healthcare systems worldwide.” Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus\, Director-General of WHO\, expressed his gratitude\, stating\, “We are immensely grateful to the French Government for its steadfast support to WHO\, continued partnership and leadership in global health. This contribution will enable us to address key health threats\, from non-communicable diseases to emergency response\, helping to save lives and protect the most vulnerable populations.” France is a strong supporter of a fully and flexibly financed WHO\, providing leadership and support to the increase of assessed contributions to the Organization. France is also one of the co-hosts to WHO’s first Investment Round towards the mobilization of predictable and flexible resources for WHO’s core work on the Fourteenth General Programme of Work (2025–2028)\, approved by the World Health Assembly in 2024. This signing ceremony marks another milestone in the strong and longstanding partnership between WHO and France\, reinforcing their joint commitment to a healthier\, safer world.\n\nhttps://www.who.int/news/item/17-10-2024-signing-ceremony-for-contribution-agreements-between-who-and-france
URL:https://www.who.int/news/item/17-10-2024-signing-ceremony-for-contribution-agreements-between-who-and-france
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
UID:who-dg-20241010-0@worldleaders.website
DTSTAMP:20260827T045044Z
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20241010
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20241011
SUMMARY:WHO and the Netherlands renew their partnership on climate change and health
DESCRIPTION:The World Health Organization (WHO) and the Kingdom of the Netherlands have renewed their strategic partnership in addressing the growing impacts of climate change on global health. The Netherlands is providing a new allocation of €500 000 for 2024 to WHO\, reinforcing its commitment to climate resilience and sustainable healthcare systems worldwide. This allocation supports WHO’s ongoing efforts to strengthen the Alliance for Transformative Action on Climate and Health Secretariat and advance climate change and health programmes globally. This contribution builds on the partnership established in 2023 between the Netherlands and WHO to collaborate on climate change and health. Together\, they have supported African\, Asian and Eastern Mediterranean countries in advancing the implementation of integrated climate and health surveillance and early warning systems\, enhancing capacity to deliver on COP26 health commitments\, helping harmonize early warning systems for health-related climate risks\, and empowering countries to advance climate-resilient health system readiness. This partnership along with the support from other organizations is pivotal in assisting Member States in developing climate-resilient and low-carbon health systems. Engaging with relevant partners\, including civil society\, Multilateral Development Banks\, UN Agencies\, and health professionals in concerted action on climate change and health\, is also a core activity. The Netherlands has been at the forefront of advocating climate action in health\, aligned with the Dutch Global Health Strategy 2023-2030 which emphasizes the intersection of climate change and health. In addition\, the Netherlands\, together with Peru\, led the adoption in 2024 of the World Health Assembly 77 Resolution on Climate Change and Health at the to renew the current one from 2008. Recognizing the increasing urgency and the need for accelerated efforts\, the resolution calls for a WHO global action plan\, increased national efforts and mainstreaming of climate change and health in WHO’s new Fourteenth General Programme of Work. The partnership’s renewal brings the total support from the Netherlands to WHO activities on climate change and health to over €1.1 Million since 2023 and comes at a crucial time as countries face increasing health challenges from climate change and as the global health community gears up for discussions on climate change and health at COP29 in Azerbaijan in 2024. Climate change will continue to be a key priority area in the new GPW\, and where WHO’s work in collaboration with Member States and partners will result in 7.5 million lives saved in the next four years\, as estimated in WHO’s latest Investment case. The Netherlands and WHO will continue to leverage their partnership to ensure that health remains central to climate negotiations and actions. A focus on building resilience in vulnerable regions and empowering countries to implement sustainable\, low-carbon healthcare solutions remains central. WHO-trained Rapid Responders evaluating flash flood aftermath in Mai Mahiu region in Kenya 29 April. From March to May 2024\, the country experienced exceptionally heavy rains\, leading to widespread devastation\, including fatalities\, disease outbreaks\, and severe infrastructure damage. Photo: WHO/Genna Print\n\nhttps://www.who.int/news/item/10-10-2024-who-and-the-netherlands-renew-their-partnership-on-climate-change-and-health
URL:https://www.who.int/news/item/10-10-2024-who-and-the-netherlands-renew-their-partnership-on-climate-change-and-health
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
UID:who-dg-20240904-0@worldleaders.website
DTSTAMP:20260827T045044Z
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20240904
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240905
SUMMARY:The Republic of Korea and WHO discuss joint priorities\, challenges and trends around global health
DESCRIPTION:The World Health Organization (WHO) and the Republic of Korea have a long-standing partnership spanning over 75 years. As a result of their fruitful collaboration\, there has been significant progress in health and development all around the world. The Republic of Korea has gone from being a donor-recipient country to a donor-country and is now a leader in global health and playing a critical role on the world stage. Dr Catharina Boehme\, Assistant Director-General for External Relations and Governance (WHO) and Dr Hye-Jin Kim\, Deputy Minister for Planning and Coordination (Ministry of Health and Welfare\, Republic of Korea)\, together with counterparts from WHO and the Government of the Republic of Korea. © WHO To further strengthen this partnership and our commitment to working jointly to address global health challenges\, WHO and the Republic of Korea convened their second Strategic Dialogue in Seoul from 28 to 29 August 2024. Dr Catharina Boehme\, Assistant Directory-General for External Relations and Governance\, led the WHO delegation and was accompanied by an in-person team and colleagues participating virtually from the three levels of the Organization (headquarters\, regional\, and country offices). Dr Hye-Jin Kim\, Deputy Minister for Planning and Coordination\, Ministry of Health\, led the Republic of Korea delegation and was joined by senior officials including Dr Young-Mee Jee\, Commissioner\, Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency\, as well as senior counterparts from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs\, and the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety. In addition\, in line with WHO's work to enhance collaboration with parliamentarians\, the WHO delegation also met with various Members of the National Assembly that are championing the global health agenda. The recently concluded two-day meeting resulted in an alignment of priorities and paved the way for enhanced collaboration between WHO and the Government of Korea. WHO delegation with Mr Jonghan Park\, Director-General\, Development Cooperation (Ministry of Foreign Affairs) - holding up the WHO Investment Case report . © WHO\n\nhttps://www.who.int/news/item/29-08-2024-the-republic-of-korea-and-who-discuss-joint-priorities--challenges-and-trends-around-global-health
URL:https://www.who.int/news/item/29-08-2024-the-republic-of-korea-and-who-discuss-joint-priorities--challenges-and-trends-around-global-health
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
UID:who-dg-20240827-0@worldleaders.website
DTSTAMP:20260827T045044Z
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20240827
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240828
SUMMARY:Fourteen African countries\, key partners unite to provide critical resources for health in WHO’s first-ever Investment Round
DESCRIPTION:In an unprecedented show of unity in support of the World Health Organization\, 14 African countries and many partners pledged over US$ 45 million to the WHO Investment Round\, a three-month-old initiative aimed at generating sustainable financing for the organization at the center of the global health architecture. The commitments were made during the World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Committee for Africa\, with heads of state and government from across the continent underscoring the importance of investing in global health and ensuring a strong WHO. “I thank our African Region Member States for actively supporting WHO’s first Investment Round to mobilize predictable and flexible resources needed for our core work over the next four years\,” said Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus\, WHO Director-General. “Full\, sustainable funding will enable WHO to support countries better in their work to build healthier\, more resilient\, and more prosperous populations.” The countries and partners came together for the historic event aimed at sustainably funding WHO and thus enabling it to more effectively fulfil its mandate and advance key objectives to promote\, provide and protect health and well-being for all. The countries included Botswana\, Cabo Verde\, Chad\, Congo\, Ethiopia\, Gambia\, Mauritius\, Namibia\, Niger\, Rwanda\, Senegal\, Seychelles\, South Africa\, and the United Republic of Tanzania. Many partners joined Members States in making commitments of support to WHO and committing to providing pledges later in the year\, including Helmsley Charitable Trust\, World Diabetes Foundation\, Roche\, Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development\, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation\, African Development Bank and the WHO Foundation. “A strong\, predictable and sustainably financed WHO is essential for our region and the world to meet the multiple health threats we face\; and support the prevention of disease based on the vast evidence at our disposal\,” said Dr Matshidiso Moeti\, WHO Regional Director for Africa. “Every pledge and every partnership counts. Together\, we can achieve a future where health and well-being are accessible to all.” The WHO Investment Round will continue in the coming months and feature key pledging moments around the world. Learn more about the WHO Investment Round . Launched at the World Health Assembly in May 2024\, the Investment Round aims to generate contributions that are flexible and thereby aligned with WHO’s strategy as approved by its Member States\; predictably provided at the start of the four-year budget cycle to enable strategic decision-making\; and resilient in that they will derive from a larger\, more diverse set of donors.\n\nhttps://www.who.int/news/item/27-08-2024-fourteen-african-countries--key-partners-unite-to-provide-critical-resources-for-health-in-who-s-first-ever-investment-round
URL:https://www.who.int/news/item/27-08-2024-fourteen-african-countries--key-partners-unite-to-provide-critical-resources-for-health-in-who-s-first-ever-investment-round
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UID:who-dg-20240731-0@worldleaders.website
DTSTAMP:20260827T045044Z
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20240731
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240801
SUMMARY:India commits US$ 85 million to WHO Global Traditional Medicine Centre
DESCRIPTION:The WHO-India donor agreement is part of a US$ 250 million investment from India in support of the establishment of the WHO Global Centre of Traditional Medicine in 2022\, which includes financial support for the workplan of the Centre\, interim premises and a new building. This support will scale up WHO’s capacities on traditional medicine across technical divisions and regions in the spirit of global collaboration and solidarity. Part of this substantial contribution from the Government of India will also be included in WHO’s Investment Round to resource WHO’s core work during 2025–2028.\n\nhttps://www.who.int/news/item/31-07-2024-india-commits-usd-85-million-to-who-global-traditional-medicine-centre
URL:https://www.who.int/news/item/31-07-2024-india-commits-usd-85-million-to-who-global-traditional-medicine-centre
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BEGIN:VEVENT
UID:who-dg-20240712-0@worldleaders.website
DTSTAMP:20260827T045044Z
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20240712
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240713
SUMMARY:WHO launches unique training course to enable parliamentarians in global health security
DESCRIPTION:The World Health Organization has released "The Role of Parliaments and Parliamentarians in Strengthening Health Security Preparedness"\, an online training course. This essential resource aims to equip parliamentarians with the knowledge and tools necessary to enhance global health security efforts.\n\nhttps://www.who.int/news/item/12-07-2024-who-launches-unique-training-course-to-enable-parliamentarians-in-global-health-security
URL:https://www.who.int/news/item/12-07-2024-who-launches-unique-training-course-to-enable-parliamentarians-in-global-health-security
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UID:who-dg-20240523-0@worldleaders.website
DTSTAMP:20260827T045044Z
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20240523
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240524
SUMMARY:Qatar Fund for Development (QFFD) supports the implementation of WHO's extended 13th General Programme of Work with flexible funding
DESCRIPTION:Ahead of the Seventy-seventh World Health Assembly \, the Qatar Fund for Development (QFFD) and the World Health Organization (WHO) have signed a Core Contribution Agreement to support the implementation of WHO’s extended Thirteenth General Programme of Work. The agreement entails a contribution of US$ 4 million from the State of Qatar to WHO\, through QFFD\, aimed at enhancing the Organization's efforts in addressing global health challenges. This partnership underscores the State of Qatar and QFFD's unwavering commitment to improving health outcomes and promoting sustainable development goals worldwide. "Our partnership with WHO is a testament to our dedication to leaving no one behind in the pursuit of health equity worldwide. By supporting WHO\, we aim to empower communities\, enhance healthcare access\, and contribute to a healthier future for all\," said Mr Sultan Ahmed Al-Aseeri\, Acting Director-General of QFFD. “Flexible funds are critical for WHO’s life-saving work. With thanks to long-standing partners like the Qatar Fund for Development\, WHO can use these funds to swiftly respond to global health needs as they arise. I am grateful to the State of Qatar for their support and for allowing us the flexibility we need to carry out our mission and mandate\,” said WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. The extended Thirteenth General Programme of Work (GWP13) focuses on a comprehensive approach to health\, addressing communicable and non-communicable diseases\, strengthening health systems\, and promoting health through the life course. This collaboration will particularly emphasize supporting countries in crisis and post-crisis contexts\, aligning with the State of Qatar and QFFD's mission to provide crucial aid where it is needed most. As the world continues to navigate complex health challenges\, the partnership between QFFD and WHO represents a beacon of hope and a model for international cooperation in the realm of global health. This agreement is a significant step towards achieving the shared goal of a healthier\, more resilient world.\n\nhttps://www.who.int/news/item/23-05-2024-Qatar-Fund-for-Development-(QFFD)-supports-the-implementation-of-WHO's-extended-13th-General-Programme-of-Work-with-flexible-funding
URL:https://www.who.int/news/item/23-05-2024-Qatar-Fund-for-Development-(QFFD)-supports-the-implementation-of-WHO's-extended-13th-General-Programme-of-Work-with-flexible-funding
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UID:who-dg-20240517-0@worldleaders.website
DTSTAMP:20260827T045044Z
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20240517
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240518
SUMMARY:Ireland and WHO work together to improve access to assistive technology globally
DESCRIPTION:Ireland is becoming a global leader in the field of innovation in harnessing digital technologies as a tool to address various barriers for access to care. In alignment with WHO\, Ireland recognizes the importance of mobilizing assistive technology to help the 2.5 billion people in need globally\, including older persons\, people with disabilities\, and those living with health conditions. This includes ensuring equitable access to assistive products such as glasses\, hearing aids\, walking aids\, wheelchairs\, prosthetics\, and communication and memory devices. In March 2024\, Anne Rabbitte\, T.D.\, Ireland’s Minister of State with special responsibility for disabilities at the Department of Children\, Equality\, Disability\, Integration and Youth\, agreed to a €12.5 million donor agreement between the Government of Ireland and WHO\, aimed at accelerating affordability and availability of assistive technology for those in need. The cooperation has been building throughout the years. Back in 2022\, Taoiseach Micheál Martin\, TD\, launched the Global report on assistive technology \, along with the Director-General of WHO and the Executive Director of UNICEF. The Taoiseach highlighted the importance of international cooperation to ensure more equitable access to assistive technology\, in order to achieve a society where everyone is included and enabled to live their best life. Minister Rabbitte stated that: “Ireland has identified the serious need to invest in public health systems alongside the WHO. The present risk of rising health needs coupled with a decreasing pool of health and social care professionals globally reveals an urgent need for all of us to act now. Ireland’s contribution aligns with the recommendations of the Global Report on Assistive Technology and supports a five-year initiative towards achieving national health system models that include assistive technology. The programme will explore and demonstrate how digital technology can facilitate people-centred services\, assistive technology policy\, improve the affordability and appropriateness of assistive products\, enable effective provision systems\, and boost the capacity of health personnel to identify\, screen\, refer and provide assistive technology for all those in need.” Health personnel in Tanzania participating in on-line training on assistive products \, as part of an overall program aimed at provision of simple assistive products through community and primary health care facilities - making products such as walking aids and reading glasses more readily available for people within their local area. Digital technology was instrumental in facilitating efficient learning through the platform\, and enabling support for health workers from their mentors through communication apps after the training. Credit: WHO/Kylie Shae With an ageing global population and a rise in noncommunicable diseases\, an estimated 3.5 billion people will need assistive technology by 2050. Dr Yukiko Nakatani\, WHO Assistant Director-General\, Access to Medicines and Health Products\, welcomes this important contribution from Ireland and their leadership in the digital initiative. She said: “The 2018 World Health Assembly resolution on assistive technology calls upon WHO to take the necessary steps to promote equitable access to assistive technology in our endeavour to build a more inclusive world. Our partnership with the Government of Ireland will support WHO in achieving our mission to ensure health for all\, everywhere\, with assistive technologies as an important enabler of well-being\, inclusion\, and participation.” Through Ireland’s contribution\, and in collaboration with its broad network of partners\, WHO will develop evidence-based guidance for Member States on strengthening access to assistive technology through understanding\, prioritising and stimulating increased innovation and use of digital solutions. The work will also involve national\, regional\, and global projects that test digital solutions designed to address persistent access barriers such as: digital platforms that empower users with information about assistive technology and how to access it\; digital tracking of products to manage supply\; and online training and support for health workers. The results and lessons learned will help countries expand their knowledge\, skills\, and capacities in the provision of assistive technology as an integral component of Universal Health Care. ‘Leaving no one behind’ means ensuring that people with disabilities\, the older population\, those affected by chronic diseases and everyone who needs assistive technology are included in society and able to live healthy and dignified lives. * * * * Click below to find out what is assistive technology\, who needs it\, and how it improves lives Assistive technology is an umbrella term for external products used by individuals to help maintain or improve their bodily functions. Common examples are wheelchairs\, glasses\, prosthetic limbs\, white canes\, and hearing aids as well as digital solutions such as speech recognition or time management software. Assistive technology helps people in all aspects of their lives\, including in education\, employment\, fitness\, leisure and other everyday activities such as self-care\, cooking and reading. Most people will need assistive technology at some point in their lives\, especially as they age. While some may require assistive technology temporarily\, such as after an accident or illness\, others may require it for a longer period or throughout their lifespan. It is commonly needed by older people\, children and adults with disabilities\, people who have been injured or who have a health condition such as diabetes\, stroke and dementia. Equitable access is key Improving access to assistive technology enables the inclusion and participation of users in their family\, community and all areas of society\, including the political\, economic and social spheres. Assistive technology positively impacts a person\, their family and friends\, and has broader socioeconomic benefits. For example: early provision of hearing aids for young children supports their development of language and communication skills\, limiting negative impacts on their education\, future employment and community participation\; provision of appropriate wheelchairs facilitates mobility\, improving individuals’ access to education and employment while reducing healthcare costs due to a reduction in secondary complications such as pressure sores and contractures\; therapeutic footwear for diabetes reduces the incidence of foot ulcers\, preventing amputations and the associated impact on individuals and burden on health-care systems\; and timely provision of assistive technology for older people can improve their independence and safety as well as enable them to live at home for as long as possible. Show less Show more\n\nhttps://www.who.int/news/item/17-05-2024-ireland-and-who-work-together-to-improve-access-to-assistive-technology-globally
URL:https://www.who.int/news/item/17-05-2024-ireland-and-who-work-together-to-improve-access-to-assistive-technology-globally
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UID:who-dg-20240510-0@worldleaders.website
DTSTAMP:20260827T045044Z
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20240510
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240511
SUMMARY:Governments agree to continue their steady progress on proposed pandemic agreement ahead of the World Health Assembly
DESCRIPTION:Governments of the world today agreed to continue working on a proposed pandemic agreement\, and to further refine the draft\, ahead of the Seventy-seventh World Health Assembly that starts 27 May 2024. Governments meeting at the World Health Organization headquarters in Geneva agreed to resume hybrid and in-person discussions over coming weeks to advance work on critical issues\, including around a proposed new global system for pathogen access and benefits sharing (i.e. life-saving vaccines\, treatments and diagnostics)\; pandemic prevention and One Health\; and the financial coordination needed to scale up countries’ capacities to prepare for and respond to pandemics. "During more than two years of intensive negotiations\, WHO’s Member States have shown unwavering commitment to forging a generational agreement to protect the world from a repeat of the horrors caused by the COVID-19 pandemic\,” said Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus\, WHO Director-General. “I welcome the determination that all countries have shown to continue their work and fulfill the mission on which they embarked.” The Member State-led Intergovernmental Negotiating Body (INB) was established over two years ago to take this effort forward. The Bureau of the INB\, which is guiding the process\, will submit its outcome for consideration at the World Health Assembly. INB Bureau Co-Chair Dr Precious Matsoso\, from South Africa\, said progress had been made during this latest round of discussions on a wide range of issues contained in the draft agreement. “We are witnessing history play out before our eyes during this process\, with the coming together of all countries to decide a binding pact to protect all citizens of the world\,” said Ms Matsoso. “This is not a simple exercise. This is the first ever process to develop a proposed agreement on pandemic prevention\, preparedness and response. Getting this done means getting it right\, and the INB Bureau is committed to help finalize a meaningful\, lasting agreement.” Fellow INB Bureau Co-Chair\, Mr Roland Driece\, from the Netherlands\, said when countries launched the process two years ago to develop a pandemic agreement\, they did so knowing they had set an ambitious timeline to reach an ambitious goal. “This unprecedented effort by all WHO Member States was launched in response to an unprecedented global emergency – the COVID-19 pandemic\,” said Mr Driece. “These sovereign states did so recognizing that great collaboration and coordination were needed in the face of pandemics. While negotiations have been challenging at times\, all countries agree that the world must be better prepared for the next pandemic. It is not a matter of if a pandemic will happen again\; it is a matter of when. We cannot afford to miss this historic opportunity to make the world safer from the next pandemic threat.” In March 2021\, heads of state and government from two dozen countries issued a statement of commitment calling for global collaboration to prepare for\, prevent and respond to pandemics. In December 2021\, WHO Member States decided to launch a global process to draft and negotiate a legally binding convention\, agreement or other international instrument to strengthen pandemic prevention\, preparedness and response.\n\nhttps://www.who.int/news/item/10-05-2024-governments-agree-to-continue-their-steady-progress-on-proposed-pandemic-agreement-ahead-of-the-world-health-assembly
URL:https://www.who.int/news/item/10-05-2024-governments-agree-to-continue-their-steady-progress-on-proposed-pandemic-agreement-ahead-of-the-world-health-assembly
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UID:who-dg-20240425-0@worldleaders.website
DTSTAMP:20260827T045044Z
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20240425
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240426
SUMMARY:Spain's Secretary of State for Health discusses health priorities with WHO
DESCRIPTION:WHO welcomed Mr Javier Padilla Bernáldez\, Spain’s Secretary of State for Health and his delegation on 23 and 24 April 2024 to discuss joint global health priorities. Amongst others\, Spain's focus is on universal health coverage and health systems strengthening\; pandemic response and emergency medical teams\; organ and tissue transplantation\; malaria and other tropical diseases\; and polio. During the visit\, participants focused on plans and on-going work across a number of areas\, including WHO’s Transplantation Program to increase availability\; ethical access and oversight of transplantation of human cells\; tissues and organs. They also discussed social determinants of health\; tobacco and alcohol control\; primary health care\; access to medicines\; universal health coverage\; ensuring healthy lives at all ages\; nutrition and food safety\; health workforce\; and emergencies. Mr Javier Padilla was accompanied by Ms Paola Cannata Molero\, Director of the Cabinet of the Secretary of State for Health\, Mr Jacobo Fernández Álvarez\, Technical Secretary General\, Mr Héctor Tejero Franco\, Advisor in the Cabinet of the Minister of Health and Responsible for Health and Climate Change\, and Mr Roberto Carro Vázquez\, Senior Technician of the Office of the Secretary of State for Health. The delegation also had representatives of Spain’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations Office and Other International Organizations in Geneva\, including H.E. Ambassador Ms A. Díaz-Rato Revuelta\, H.E. Ambassador Ms Clara Cabrera Brasero\, and Counsellor Ms María del Carmen Martínez de la Peña. The Spanish delegation met with Dr Ailan Li\, Assistant Director General (ADG) for Universal Health Coverage\, Healthier Populations\, Dr Catharina Boehme \, ADG for External Relations and Governance\, Dr Yukiko Nakatani\, ADG for Access to Medicines and Health products and ADG for Antimicrobial Resistance ad interim\, Dr Michael Ryan\, Deputy Director-General and Executive Director for WHO Health Health Emergencies Programme. Left to right: Dr Maria Neira\, Director\, Environment\, Climate Change and Health\, H.E. Ambassador Aurora Díaz-Rato Revuelta\, Dr Javier Padilla Bernáldez\, Secretary of State for Health\, Michael Ryan\, Deputy Director-General and Executive Director\, WHO Health Emergencies Programme. Credit: WHO/Chris Black WHO’s Management and their teams thanked Spain for their financial and technical support over the years. Spain’s support was instrumental in the last biennium in improving access to quality essential health services and medicines\; addressing climate change and healthier environments\; and strengthening country capacity in both data and innovation. Spain continues to be a champion of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative. Spain also contributes to WHO’s work in tackling malaria and neglected and other tropical diseases\, and has helped the Organization strengthen countries’ preparedness\, readiness\, prevention and response for health emergencies\, epidemics and pandemics. Spain’s contribution to WHO’s Health Emergency Appeal has helped to protect health in humanitarian emergencies to break the cycles of poverty. As a world leader in the field of organ and tissue transplantation\, Spain plays a key role in WHO’s efforts through its Ministry of Health to improve the safety\, quality\, efficacy and access to transplants. WHO appreciates and acknowledges Spain as a partner who is not only leading and sharing expertise in support of countries’ development of sustainable\, self-sufficient organ transplant systems\, but also more generally\, a key partner to WHO in health for all.\n\nhttps://www.who.int/news/item/25-04-2024-spain-s-secretary-of-state-for-health-discusses-joint-global-health-priorities-with-who
URL:https://www.who.int/news/item/25-04-2024-spain-s-secretary-of-state-for-health-discusses-joint-global-health-priorities-with-who
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UID:who-dg-20240412-0@worldleaders.website
DTSTAMP:20260827T045044Z
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20240412
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240413
SUMMARY:Enhancing Global Health and Well-Being: WHO and the Netherlands strengthen their Partnership
DESCRIPTION:WHO and Netherlands Strategic Dialogue in The Hague\, Netherlands 10 April 2024. Credit: Michel Mees Photography The WHO and the Netherlands convened in The Hague on 10 April 2024\, to discuss joint priorities and alignment between the Dutch Global Health Strategy and WHO’s key strategic goals\, marking a new milestone in their longstanding partnership. Rooted in the Netherlands' unwavering commitment to global health\, human rights\, and universal access to comprehensive health services\, the collaboration between the WHO and the Netherlands is instrumental in addressing global health challenges and fostering health and well-being\, worldwide and in the country. Against the backdrop of ongoing conflicts\, disasters\, and the escalating impact of climate change\, and the interconnectedness of the Dutch public health landscape in the Netherlands with global health challenges\, this year’s Strategic Dialogue emerged as a critical platform for reflecting on this partnership’s long-term vision. “In this Strategic Dialogue\, throughout all sessions\, WHO and the Netherlands showed a commitment to cooperation and to deepening their partnership based on the strong alignment between their respective priorities and objectives”\, said Ms Marjolijn Sonnema\, Director General for Public Health at the Netherlands’ Ministry of Health\, Welfare and Sport. A key outcome of the Strategic Dialogue was the recognition of the alignment between the Dutch Global Health Strategy and the WHO's forthcoming 14th General Programme of Work\, paving the way for synergies in areas such as health system strengthening\, pandemic preparedness\, climate change and health\, anti-microbial resistance (AMR) and mental health support. "At a time when inequity in health and in access to essential health services and financial protection is increasing\, disproportionately impacting the poor and most vulnerable\, the Netherlands stands as a global health leader and trusted WHO partner. With shared priorities and commitment to sexual and reproductive rights\, gender equity\, health systems\, security\, climate resilience\, and mental health\, we look forward to strengthening our partnership to enhance the health and well-being of all\, globally and in the Netherlands"\, said Dr Bruce Aylward\, WHO Assistant Director-General\, Universal Health Coverage\, Life Course. WHO acknowledged the Netherlands' global leadership as a flexible donor\, with an agreement around the imperative to ensure WHO's financing is more sustainable\, through the inaugural WHO Investment Round. This WHO initiative aims to mobilize predictable\, sustainable and flexible resources essential for the WHO to respond swiftly and effectively to global health challenges and improve health outcomes\, particularly for vulnerable populations. Addressing contemporary challenges such as geopolitical tensions while seizing opportunities for advancing global health objectives were also on the table during the dialogue. Both parties stressed the importance of sustained collaboration to address pressing health issues comprehensively. Taking stock of the joint achievements since the previous strategic dialogue in 2022 In 2022\, the Strategic Dialogue between the Netherlands and WHO called on both partners to enhance synergies between WHO priorities and the new Dutch Global Health Strategy. Implementing this approach\, the Netherlands and WHO: Expanded their cooperation to new areas of joint interest\, e.g.\, climate change and health\; Renewed their longstanding cooperation on Water\, Sanitation and Hygiene and Mental Health and Psychosocial Support in health emergencies and humanitarian settings\; Improved the flexibility and predictability of the Netherlands’ financial support through renewed General Arrangements with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (2022-2025) and the Ministry of Health\, Welfare and Sport (2024–2028) demonstrating the Netherlands’ commitment to WHO’s sustainable financing\; Hosted together the 2nd World Local Production Forum in the Netherlands\; Continued and deepened their technical cooperation through secondments\, Junior Professional Officers and the Collaborative Centres. Show less Show more The outcomes of the 2024 dialogue will inform future collaboration between the Netherlands and the WHO\, so that efforts are aligned\, and the optimal use of resources is helps achieve improved health outcomes worldwide. The enduring partnership between the Netherlands and the WHO stands as a cornerstone in the global health landscape\, reflecting a shared commitment to advancing health and well-being globally. ----------------- The Netherlands is a key supporter and strategic partner of the WHO. In 2022- 2023\, the Netherlands was one of the top five flexible WHO contributors with nearly US$ 19 million in core voluntary contributions. Overall\, the Netherlands contributed more than US$ 106 million to the WHO in 2022 - 2023\, of which US$ 93 million\, nearly 90%\, was voluntary funding. The Netherlands also supports the WHO's technical expertise through secondments of staff and helps boost young people's careers in public health via the WHO's Junior Professional Officer Programme. This demonstrates the Netherlands' commitment through its Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ministry of Health\, Welfare and Sport to the WHO’s central role in the global health architecture. Through this support\, the Netherlands contributes to crucial activities in the areas of sexual and reproductive health\, water and sanitation\, mental health in emergencies\, emergency preparedness\, tuberculosis\, One Health\, primary health care\, antimicrobial resistance\, while facilitating cooperation with top Dutch institutions. See more information on the partnership between Netherlands and WHO.\n\nhttps://www.who.int/news/item/12-04-2024-enhancing-global-health-and-well-being--who-and-the-netherlands-strengthen-their-partnership
URL:https://www.who.int/news/item/12-04-2024-enhancing-global-health-and-well-being--who-and-the-netherlands-strengthen-their-partnership
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