77th World Health Assembly

The 77th World Health Assembly opened in Geneva under the theme “All for Health, Health for All”, with Morocco taking part. Led by Khalid Ait Taleb, Minister of Health and Social Protection, the Moroccan delegation is joining crucial discussions that will continue until June 1.

A World in Crisis: Address by the WHO Director-General

WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus opened the Assembly with a powerful address highlighting the multiple crises affecting our world. He painted a bleak picture of the effects of climate change, rising poverty, inequality and conflict. These crises are exacerbating global health problems, illustrated by the millions of children missing routine vaccinations, the rise in dengue and cholera cases, and the devastating impact of wars on population health.

A Crucial Moment for Reform

Dr Tedros emphasized the importance of this Assembly for addressing global health challenges and strengthening the international health architecture. Among the priorities, the global agreement on pandemic prevention, preparedness and response represents a unique opportunity to improve the speed and equity of the global response to future pandemics.

WHO financing is another central issue. Dr Tedros stressed the need to strengthen the organization’s financing to ensure its stability and its ability to respond to global health crises. The WHO investment cycle, launched ahead of the Assembly, aims to mobilize donors to secure sustainable financial support.

Moroccan Participation and Key Priorities

Morocco, represented by Khalid Ait Taleb, is actively participating in this Assembly. Discussions will focus on priorities such as climate change and health, health emergencies, communicable and noncommunicable diseases, mental health and women’s health. The Assembly will also see approval of WHO’s 2025-2028 strategy, focused on major challenges such as climate change, population aging, migration and technological advances.