Key developments from the 77th World Health Assembly

In May 2024, global health leaders convened at the 77th World Health Assembly (WHA), themed ‘All for Health, Health for All’. One of the main highlights was the approval of the World Health Organization’s (WHO) strategy for 2025–28, known as GPW 14, which aims to address health-related issues, including climate change, and advancements in science and technology. The strategy also seeks to get the health-related Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) back on track. To support this work, the WHO is seeking to raise US$11.1 billion over the next four years. 

Here are some of the key developments.

Landmark resolution passed on health and climate change 

In a resounding call to action, the 77th WHA has recognised climate change as an imminent threat to global health, passing a resolution that underscores the urgent need for decisive measures to confront the profound health risks posed by climate change. The actions agreed seek to empower countries to implement robust climate-resilient health initiatives tailored to their unique circumstances, and to guide cross-sectoral actions.

Countries commit to recover lost progress in maternal, newborn and child survival

Recognising the urgent need to reduce maternal and child mortality, the 77th WHA passed a resolution committing to specific actions to prevent the deaths of women, babies and children. The resolution commits countries to tackling the leading causes of maternal and child deaths, particularly in the hardest-hit nations.

Agreement reached on wide-ranging, decisive package of amendments to improve International Health Regulations 

In a historic development, WHA member states agreed on a package of critical amendments to the International Health Regulations (IHR) and made concrete commitments to completing negotiations on a global pandemic agreement within a year, at the latest. These critical actions have been taken to ensure robust systems are in place in all countries to protect the health and safety of all people everywhere from the risk of future outbreaks and pandemics. 

The package of amendments to the Regulations will strengthen global preparedness, surveillance and responses to public health emergencies, including pandemics.

Advancing social participation for universal health coverage  

Finally, member states agreed on a resolution on social participation in national health planning and implementation. The resolution aims to tackle health inequities and the erosion of trust in health systems, which is crucial in the face of the unprecedented challenges the world is facing such as climate change, conflicts, and pandemic threats.

Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director General, concluded: “The historic decisions taken today demonstrate a common desire by member states to protect their own people, and the world’s, from the shared risk of public health emergencies and future pandemics.”