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Thematic priorities – the “what”
Traditionally, WHO’s work and resources have been concentrated on infectious diseases such as HIV, malaria and TB and issues such as infant and maternal mortality. However, epidemiological and demographic shifts within the Region over recent decades mean other challenges are taking on greater importance, especially as Member States look to the future. Whether and how countries are able to address the many emerging challenges will shape the future of our societies and economies. At the same time, countries in the Region have significantly expanded their own capacity to address disease control challenges, as well as the burden these challenges are placing on health systems. In this context, the need from Member States is not simply for “more” support from WHO, but rather for different kinds of support. As stated above, in a rapidly changing world the nature of WHO’s role is evolving. This is reflected in GPW 13, which emphasizes the importance of policy dialogue and strategic support to build high-performing and equitable health systems, alongside the more traditional technical assistance – and building on our traditional strengths in convening and in standard and norm setting. In order to realize GPW 13’s commitment to promote health (through universal health coverage, or UHC), to keep the world safe (health security) and to serve the vulnerable (healthier populations), four main priorities have emerged as the issues that Member States in the Western Pacific Region
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FOR THE FUTURE
