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Global Health Leaders Convene in Geneva for 78th World Health Assembly
Delegates from 194 WHO Member States gather to address universal health coverage, pandemic preparedness, and climate-related health challenges
The 78th World Health Assembly (WHA78) commenced on 19 May 2025 in Geneva, Switzerland, bringing together delegations from all 194 Member States of the World Health Organization (WHO).
Scheduled to run until 27 May, the Assembly serves as the WHO's highest decision-making body, focusing on a comprehensive health agenda prepared by the Executive Board.
This year's Assembly operates under the theme "One World for Health," emphasizing the interconnectedness of global health issues.
Key topics on the agenda include universal health coverage, the prevention and control of non-communicable diseases, antimicrobial resistance, mental health and social connection, standardization of medical device nomenclature, and the International Health Regulations.
A significant focus of WHA78 is the anticipated adoption of a new Pandemic Agreement, following over three years of intergovernmental negotiations.
The agreement aims to strengthen global pandemic prevention, preparedness, and response mechanisms, incorporating a One Health approach that considers the interdependence of human, animal, and environmental health.
Climate change and its impact on health are also prominent on the agenda.
Member States are expected to finalize the Draft Global Action Plan on Climate Change and Health, building upon a resolution adopted at the previous Assembly.
The plan outlines strategies to address health risks associated with climate change, including heat-related illnesses, vector-borne diseases, and air pollution.
Financial considerations are central to the discussions, with the WHO facing a projected budget shortfall of $2.5 billion between 2025 and 2027. Member States are deliberating on measures to address this gap, including restructuring proposals that involve reducing staff and consolidating departments at the WHO headquarters in Geneva.
Delegates are also reviewing the WHO's Fourteenth General Programme of Work for 2025–2028, which outlines strategic objectives such as enhancing health emergency preparedness, promoting universal health coverage, and addressing the health impacts of climate change.
In addition to plenary sessions, numerous side events are taking place, focusing on topics like strengthening health systems, addressing non-communicable diseases, and promoting sexual and reproductive health and rights.
The Assembly provides a platform for Member States to collaborate on shaping global health policies and strategies, aiming to enhance health outcomes worldwide.
Proceedings are being webcast live, with simultaneous interpretation available in Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian, and Spanish.
Scheduled to run until 27 May, the Assembly serves as the WHO's highest decision-making body, focusing on a comprehensive health agenda prepared by the Executive Board.
This year's Assembly operates under the theme "One World for Health," emphasizing the interconnectedness of global health issues.
Key topics on the agenda include universal health coverage, the prevention and control of non-communicable diseases, antimicrobial resistance, mental health and social connection, standardization of medical device nomenclature, and the International Health Regulations.
A significant focus of WHA78 is the anticipated adoption of a new Pandemic Agreement, following over three years of intergovernmental negotiations.
The agreement aims to strengthen global pandemic prevention, preparedness, and response mechanisms, incorporating a One Health approach that considers the interdependence of human, animal, and environmental health.
Climate change and its impact on health are also prominent on the agenda.
Member States are expected to finalize the Draft Global Action Plan on Climate Change and Health, building upon a resolution adopted at the previous Assembly.
The plan outlines strategies to address health risks associated with climate change, including heat-related illnesses, vector-borne diseases, and air pollution.
Financial considerations are central to the discussions, with the WHO facing a projected budget shortfall of $2.5 billion between 2025 and 2027. Member States are deliberating on measures to address this gap, including restructuring proposals that involve reducing staff and consolidating departments at the WHO headquarters in Geneva.
Delegates are also reviewing the WHO's Fourteenth General Programme of Work for 2025–2028, which outlines strategic objectives such as enhancing health emergency preparedness, promoting universal health coverage, and addressing the health impacts of climate change.
In addition to plenary sessions, numerous side events are taking place, focusing on topics like strengthening health systems, addressing non-communicable diseases, and promoting sexual and reproductive health and rights.
The Assembly provides a platform for Member States to collaborate on shaping global health policies and strategies, aiming to enhance health outcomes worldwide.
Proceedings are being webcast live, with simultaneous interpretation available in Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian, and Spanish.
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