The World Health Organization opened its annual meeting on Monday at a time when countries are struggling with disease outbreaks, severe funding shortages, and increasing geopolitical pressure.
Health ministers and diplomats have gathered in Geneva for the 79th annual session of the WHO, where they are expected to discuss key issues over the coming week, including pandemic preparedness, health financing, and saving more lives across borders.
WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said in his opening remarks that recent crises have strengthened the need for stronger global cooperation instead of fragmented responses.
He said:
“Recent crises have proven that the world needs more global cooperation rather than division. We are living through difficult, dangerous, and divided times due to wars, economic crises, climate change, and declining aid.”
The WHO annual meeting began one day after the organization declared a public health emergency over an Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo due to growing international concern.
According to available information, the Ebola virus has also spread to neighboring Uganda.
The WHO chief also said the organization is not only focused on creating new initiatives but also on improving existing systems and programs.
He stated:
“Our goal is not only to develop new initiatives, but also to introduce reforms in the many existing programs that require improvement for the global health system at both regional and international levels.”
Meanwhile, the spread of Hantavirus has also raised global concern, with a recent outbreak reported on a tourist ship named MV Honduraz.
The WHO Director-General urged all countries and international organizations to remain united against such health threats.
Doctors say recent events once again show that the world remains vulnerable to cross-border health risks.
Dr. Abdul Qudus Nadiri said:
“The goal of this conference should not be limited to discussions; it must also include practical actions against these viruses so that countries can coordinate and support one another.”
Participants in the WHO annual meeting are also expected to discuss malaria eradication, antimicrobial resistance, mental health, artificial intelligence, vaccines, and global health preparedness.
