Member States approved the measure during the 79th World Health Assembly, taking place May 18-23, mandating a jointly led process that will be hosted by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and involve international health partners.

The initiative will focus on developing proposals and recommendations to improve the effectiveness, accessibility and equity of global health systems. The process is expected to draw on existing reform efforts and elements of broader United Nations initiatives.

Member States reaffirmed WHO’s central role in setting global health standards and coordinating international responses. While the process will be led by governments, it will include participation from global health institutions, civil society organisations and youth groups.

Discussions at the Assembly highlighted progress achieved under the current global health system, including improvements in disease control, international coordination and the development of health guidelines and standards.

However, countries said the system has not kept pace with changes in the global environment. These include shifting disease patterns, increased national health priorities, advances in digital and scientific technologies, and reduced funding for health programmes.

The Assembly also noted that the global health landscape has become more complex, with a growing number of actors involved in health programmes. This has led to concerns about duplication of efforts, uneven distribution of influence and challenges in maintaining country-led approaches.

The agreed process is expected to examine ways to improve coordination, strengthen country ownership and ensure that health systems can respond effectively to current and emerging challenges.

WHO Director General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has been requested to present a report outlining options and recommendations for reform at the next World Health Assembly.

–WHO/ChannelAfrica–