The World Health Organization (WHO) convened its 75th World Health Assembly in Geneva, Switzerland, in May 2022, marking a significant moment as the first in-person gathering of health leaders since the COVID-19 pandemic began. With the theme “Health for peace, peace for health,” this year’s assembly focused on enhancing global health preparedness and response, particularly in the face of rising health emergencies worldwide.
The Health Assembly brought together representatives from the WHO’s 194 member states, as well as partners, experts, and key stakeholders from across the globe. This marked an important milestone in the collective effort to address global health challenges and underscored the role of health in fostering peace and stability. The overarching message was clear: improving global health systems and preparedness for emergencies is not just a matter of public health but also of political and social security.
The assembly saw robust discussions on health security, with particular attention given to the lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic. Although the pandemic continues to strain global health systems, the assembly highlighted the need for countries to bolster their health infrastructures to better handle future pandemics, natural disasters, and other public health threats. WHO emphasized the importance of building resilient health systems, with an emphasis on equitable access to healthcare, stronger international collaboration, and the need for increased investment in health systems globally.
Another significant topic was the need for improved emergency response strategies. Delegates discussed strengthening international mechanisms for responding to health crises, such as the creation of a global health treaty aimed at ensuring faster and more coordinated international responses to future pandemics. Many member states also advocated for the expansion of the International Health Regulations (IHR) to include more comprehensive guidelines for managing global health crises.
Throughout the week, WHO’s leadership, including Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, reinforced the message of solidarity and collective responsibility. Dr. Tedros emphasized the central role of WHO in coordinating the global health response and called for more financial and technical resources to help the organization in its mission. Additionally, he acknowledged the importance of building a healthier, more peaceful world, where health is seen as a cornerstone of peace and stability.
The discussions were not only centered on immediate health emergencies but also on long-term strategies for achieving universal health coverage (UHC) and tackling the social determinants of health. The importance of addressing issues like mental health, climate change, and access to vaccines was also highlighted as crucial to creating resilient communities capable of responding to future health challenges.
In conclusion, the 75th World Health Assembly served as a reminder of the need for continued global collaboration to address health emergencies. It underscored the critical role that health plays in maintaining peace and stability and called for stronger preparedness and response mechanisms to safeguard global health in the future. With ongoing challenges, it is evident that a coordinated, multi-sectoral approach is essential for building a healthier and more peaceful world.
