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UN Secretary General message to 79th WHO World Health Assembly
Secretary-General's video message to the 79th World Health Assembly
Statements | António Guterres, Secretary-General
Excellencies, dear colleagues, friends, I send warm greetings to the 79th World Health Assembly.
This annual gathering is a vital opportunity for Member States to align and accelerate efforts to address global health challenges.
Challenges that have rarely felt more daunting. Over the past year, cuts to bilateral and multilateral aid have disrupted health systems and widened inequalities. Clinics have closed. Health workers have lost their jobs. Prevention, surveillance, and care have been weakened. Lives have been cut short.
Meanwhile, the World Health Organization has reprioritized and recalibrated, while continuing to deliver for Member States. Preserving core functions while providing technical leadership, operational support, and a trusted convening space. Delivering urgent health support within multiplying humanitarian emergencies. And looking to health challenges on the horizon. From the need to expand universal health coverage.
To the effects of climate change on people’s health.
To your discussions on pandemic preparedness, including the Pathogen Access and Benefit-Sharing Annex.
WHO stands at the centre of our global health architecture. It must be strong and independent, with ample and sustainable financing. This Assembly’s work is critical for global health security and the promise of health for all — today and tomorrow. I thank all Member States for your leadership, commitment, and partnership for a healthier, safer, and fairer world.
And I wish you a very successful World Health Assembly.
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