The Seventy-ninth World Health Assembly, held in Geneva, concluded with significant achievements, including the adoption of over 20 decisions and 13 resolutions on critical health issues such as stroke, liver disease, tuberculosis, and antimicrobial resistance.
Health Resolutions and Strategic Decisions
Delegates addressed numerous health, political, and administrative topics. Notably, they agreed to reform global health infrastructure through a collaborative, WHO-hosted process. Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, emphasized in his closing remarks the importance of translating resolutions into actionable changes within clinics, communities, and households.
Ethical Recruitment of Health Workers
Member States updated the WHO Global Code of Practice on the International Recruitment of Health Personnel, aiming to ensure global access to skilled health workers. The revisions include provisions for international care worker recruitment and emphasize ethical practices during emergencies. This update represents a renewed commitment to health equity and the ethical management of international health personnel mobility.
Economics of Health Strategy
The Assembly adopted a new strategy for the economics of health for all (2026–2030), aiming to integrate health into economic policies and emphasize the interconnectedness of health and economic prosperity. This strategy seeks to strengthen investments in health systems, supporting universal health coverage and sustainable development.
Radiation Protection and Preparedness
For the first time, a comprehensive approach to radiation protection was agreed upon, covering both ionizing and non-ionizing radiation. Member States committed to enhancing radiation monitoring, workforce training, and integrating radiation risk management into public health programs. The resolution underscores the importance of protecting vulnerable groups, such as children and pregnant women, and improving public awareness.
Global Action Plan on Antimicrobial Resistance
The Assembly renewed its commitment to combating antimicrobial resistance (AMR) with the Global Action Plan on AMR for 2026–2036. The plan prioritizes expanding access to effective antimicrobials, reducing infections through a One Health approach, and minimizing environmental pollution from resistant microbes.
Projections indicate a significant threat posed by AMR, potentially causing up to 39 million deaths by 2050. The updated plan emphasizes governance, sustainable financing, and accountability, aiming for a 10% reduction in AMR-related human deaths by 2030.
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