UK Highlights Commitment at WHO’s 2024 Executive Board
The United Kingdom has delivered a pivotal statement at the World Health Organization’s (WHO) Executive Board meeting in Geneva, highlighting significant health challenges and the nation’s commitment to global health advancements.
WHO’s Impactful Work in 2023: UK’s Acknowledgement
Recognizing WHO’s Global Health Contributions
The UK expressed gratitude to the WHO Director-General for the comprehensive report, applauding WHO’s notable achievements in 2023. The dedication of WHO staff, especially in managing health emergencies in regions like Ukraine and Gaza, was particularly commended.
2024: A Defining Year for WHO
Anticipating a Groundbreaking Investment Round
The UK anticipates a fruitful year for the WHO, marked by a successful Investment Round and the introduction of a new General Programme of Work (GPW). This GPW is expected to clarify WHO’s priorities and highlight its unique role in promoting Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) with a gender-responsive approach.
Pandemic Preparedness: A Global Priority
UK’s Stance on Pandemic Accord and Health Regulations
The UK reaffirms its commitment to finalizing a new Pandemic Accord and amending the International Health Regulations. These steps are vital to enhancing global preparedness against health threats, ensuring robust prevention and response while respecting national sovereignty.
Anti-Microbial Resistance: A Global Health Priority
High-Level Meeting on AMR: A Crucial Opportunity
2024 is a pivotal year for tackling Anti-Microbial Resistance (AMR). The UK looks forward to the High-Level Meeting on AMR, viewing it as a critical moment to advance this global health agenda.
Climate Change and Health: A Collective Battle
UK Supports WHO’s Role in Addressing the Climate Crisis
The UK is aligned with the WHO in recognizing climate change as a health crisis, as discussed at COP28. The UK supports WHO’s central role in addressing this challenge collectively.
Tackling Ageing Population and Health Systems Challenges
Sharing UK’s Insights and Strategies
The UK is ready to contribute its learnings on managing the challenges posed by an ageing population, as detailed in the Chief Medical Officer’s report, to strengthen global health systems.
Tobacco Control: Towards a ‘Smoke-Free Generation’
The UK’s Progressive Stance on Tobacco Harms
Emphasizing tobacco control as a key public health issue, the UK is committed to introducing groundbreaking legislation aimed at fostering the first ‘smoke-free generation’.
Sources: THX News & UK Mission to the WTO, UN and Other International Organisations (Geneva).