The 78th World Health Assembly (WHA) convened in Geneva on Monday under the rallying theme “One World for Health,” with a packed agenda that includes finalizing a landmark pandemic prevention and response agreement and shoring up the World Health Organization’s financing.
Pandemic Agreement in the Spotlight
WHO Director‑General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus opened the session by emphasizing the assembly’s unique historical importance: member states are set to review and potentially ratify the pandemic accord, a framework negotiated over three years to strengthen global readiness for future health emergencies.
“This year’s WHA could redefine how the world prepares for and responds to pandemics,” Tedros remarked, urging swift action from all 194 member countries.
Securing WHO’s Financial Future
To safeguard the organization’s independence, Tedros also called on countries to approve an increase in their assessed contributions—mandatory dues that underpin WHO’s core operations. Discussions will center on balancing a proposed program budget of USD 4.267 billion for 2026–27 against a range of priorities, from climate‑related health threats to antimicrobial resistance.
China’s Delegation on Global Health and Taiwan
Heading China’s delegation, Lei Haichao—Director of the National Health Commission—highlighted Beijing’s commitment to multilateral health initiatives. He reiterated China’s stance that Taiwan is an inalienable part of its territory and criticized attempts by some delegates to introduce Taiwan’s observer status onto the WHA agenda, calling such moves a breach of established WHA rules and international consensus.
Broad Agenda of Health Challenges
Over the next week, delegates will also:
- Review the 2024 results report, measuring progress on previous WHA resolutions
- Debate 75 agenda items including the global health workforce crisis, polio eradication, and equitable access to care
- Examine strategies to combat antimicrobial resistance and bolster systems for health emergencies
WHA’s Role and Timeline
As WHO’s highest policymaking body, the Assembly convenes each May to chart the organization’s course, set policies, and approve its budget. The 78th session runs through May 27, concluding a pivotal chapter in global health governance at a time when the world seeks unity against shared health threats.
