The World Health Organization (WHO) recently conducted the 76th annual World Health Assembly. The event was held at WHO’s headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland, from 21st to 30th May 2023. This year’s theme was “WHO at 75: Saving lives, driving health for all.” One of the key features of this assembly was the active involvement and participation of Indian leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Here, we discuss the details of the assembly and India’s contributions to global health.
The World Health Assembly
The World Health Assembly is the main decision-making body of WHO, consisting of delegates from all member states. The event takes place annually in Geneva, Switzerland, where major policy changes are discussed. Key responsibilities of the assembly include deciding on Organization policies, appointing the Director-General of WHO, and administering financial policies.
Key Highlights of the 76th World Health Assembly
Several resolutions were passed and initiatives introduced during the 76th World Health Assembly, among them:
1. Global Plan for Indigenous Health: A resolution was accepted for the development of an Action Plan for Indigenous People’s Health, stressing on informed consent, consultation and addressing challenges such as poverty, discrimination, and limited access to healthcare.
2. Global Alliance for Drowning Prevention: Initiated to address worldwide public health concerns related to drowning by 2029, with WHO coordinating actions and preparing a global status report.
3. Resolution on Chemicals, Waste, and Pollution: The resolution highlights the need for regulatory frameworks, risk identification, and better data organization regarding chemical exposures and health effects.
WHO Program Budget
For its 2024-2025 program budget, WHO member states agreed on $6.83 billion USD, with a 20% increase in assessed contributions. Top contributors included Germany, Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, US, UK, and European Commission.
Replenishment Mechanism
In a bid to ensure financial sustainability, a new replenishment mechanism was introduced to provide flexible funding options. This mechanism aims to increase voluntary contributions to cover the unfunded parts of WHO’s base segment.
WHO Funding
The WHO’s funding primarily comes in two forms – assessed contributions (calculated as a percentage of a country’s GDP) and voluntary contributions from member states or other partners.
Pandemic Response Funding
In response to global health emergencies, WHO receives additional funds from various sources. A notable example is the Covid-19 Solidarity Response Fund, established during the COVID-19 pandemic.
India’s Participation in the 76th World Health Assembly
India’s participation in the assembly was significant; it stressed the importance of collaboration, resilient global health systems, and traditional systems like Yoga and Ayurveda. India proudly announced its donation of 300 million COVID-19 vaccine doses to over 100 countries and declared its support for the G20 theme of ‘One Earth, One Family, One Future.’ Also highlighted were achievements in healthcare, particularly the Ayushman Bharat scheme, and the contribution in Medical Value Travel. The ‘Heal by India’ initiative, aimed at promoting AYUSH treatments globally, was also underscored.
Last Modified: February 20, 2024