By Abigael Gioche
The 78th World Health Assembly, held by the World Health Organization (WHO), marks its final day today. The Assembly, held in Geneva, wraps up after a week of dialogue, agreements and negotiations to improve global health.
Reflecting on the breadth of decisions made, WHO chief Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus described WHA78 as a “historic” display of global resolve.
“This Health Assembly has been one of unity and ambition. Member States have come together in the spirit of solidarity, putting aside differences to make historic progress on pandemic preparedness, universal health coverage, and the health impacts of climate change,” Dr. Tedros stated.
The preceding days of the assembly were marked with the adoption of the Pandemic Agreement, in what was defined as a ‘monumental’ moment for the globe.
The treaty aims to enhance global preparedness and response to future pandemics. The first of its kind, the agreement is inspired by the past COVID-19 crisis, which had ripple effects throughout the globe.
The assembly also laid its focus on the organization’s funding mechanisms. It emphasized the need for member states to increase health allocations in their respective budgets to boost healthcare services and increase efficiency and transparency in spending.
The health conditions in the occupied Palestinian territory raised concern, with delegates stressing the need for healthcare assistance and protection of healthcare infrastructure, echoing human rights concerns.
Delegates expressed climate health commitments, delegating a response roadmap. Polio eradication campaigns were also enforced, under the mission of a Polio- free world.
As the assembly winds up, adoptions are expected to be finalized. The WHO Director-General is anticipated to deliver a closing address, highlighting both the spirit of cooperation and the road ahead in global health.
The assembly leaves behind a critical footprint for global health action.