The Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) and the World Health Organization (WHO) have joined forces once again to reaffirm the crucial role of parliamentarians in promoting good health and creating stable and equitable societies. The signing of a new Memorandum of Understanding at the 148th IPU Assembly in Geneva solidifies their commitment to working together over the next five years to address global health challenges.
The memorandum focuses on key areas such as universal health coverage, global health security, health promotion, and reducing health inequities, with a particular emphasis on sexual and reproductive health and rights. Additionally, it includes new initiatives to tackle climate change, support government-led negotiations on a new pandemic agreement, and ensure sustainable financing for health.
One of the main objectives of this collaboration is to support the ongoing negotiations for an international agreement on pandemic prevention, preparedness, and response. The proposed agreement aims to enhance international cooperation and ensure better preparedness for future health crises, building on the lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic.
Both Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, and Mr. Martin Chungong, IPU Secretary General, expressed their commitment to working closely with parliamentarians worldwide to advance public health efforts. They highlighted the importance of political leadership in saving lives and protecting health, emphasizing the need for proactive measures to prevent future pandemics.
This renewed partnership between the IPU and WHO builds on past collaborations, including a landmark resolution on achieving universal health coverage and the development of practical resources for parliamentarians. By leveraging their scientific and political mandates, both organizations aim to create a healthier and safer world for all.
