World Health Assembly Reviews Essential Global Health Initiatives Amid Crises
Geneva, Friday, 23 May 2025.
The 78th World Health Assembly reports significant advancements in global health preparedness while addressing urgent research needs and health impacts in crisis regions like Ukraine and Palestine.
Significant Advancements in Global Health Preparedness
The 78th World Health Assembly reported noteworthy advancements in global health preparedness, emphasizing the importance of the International Health Regulations in reinforcing health security worldwide. Member states acknowledged progress in the implementation of these regulations, citing the identification and verification of 429 events with potential or actual public health implications in 2024 [1]. Additionally, major discussions highlighted the urgent need for research into public health and social measures to efficiently control outbreaks and pandemics [1].
Key Developments Amidst Global Health Challenges
The Assembly also spotlighted the effectiveness of WHO’s response in delivering health support to regions plagued by conflict, notably Ukraine. In 2024 alone, WHO reached an estimated 4.7 million people in Ukraine, providing over $32.5 million worth of medicines, medical equipment, and supplies [1]. Similarly, the health system in the Gaza Strip faces substantial challenges, exacerbated by ongoing violence and severe shortages of essential medical supplies, leading to numerous casualties and an increasing health crisis [1].
Strategic Funding and Global Solidarity
Amid these challenges, the Assembly witnessed a significant pledge of financial support for global health initiatives. As part of WHO’s Investment Round, which aims to fund the 14th General Programme of Work 2025–2028, $1.7 billion has been pledged by member states, with an additional $210 million committed during the Health Assembly [1]. This collective effort demonstrates global solidarity in confronting escalating health challenges, with a focus on securing resilient and flexible funding mechanisms [1].
Adoption of the Global Pandemic Agreement
One of the hallmark achievements of the Assembly was the adoption of a historic Pandemic Agreement intended to enhance global collaboration and improve pandemic preparedness. This agreement, finalized on May 20, 2025, despite the absence of key players such as the U.S., aims to mitigate future pandemic risks by ensuring equitable access to essential health products [1][2]. It includes the development of a Pathogen Access and Benefit-Sharing system and a Coordinating Financial Mechanism to bolster pandemic response efforts worldwide [2].