The World Health Organization (WHO) and its partners are urging world leaders to tackle pressing global health issues and invest in public health during the 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA79), taking place in New York from September 20-30, 2024. The second High-Level Meeting on Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) on September 26 will be the flagship health-focused event, addressing the growing threat of AMR, which could return us to the pre-antibiotic era.
“Antimicrobial resistance threatens a century of medical progress and could make treatable infections a death sentence,” warned Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General. The WHO emphasizes that strong health systems, equitable access to health services, and robust pandemic preparedness are vital for a safer and healthier world.
The Summit of the Future will convene world leaders on September 22-23 to forge a new international consensus on delivering better outcomes in the present and safeguarding the future. This summit will bring together Heads of State and high-ranking government officials to endorse the Pact for the Future, including a Global Digital Compact and a Declaration on Future Generations.
The High-Level Meeting on AMR will address the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance, which occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites no longer respond to medicines. Without decisive action, AMR will cause even more global suffering, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.
WHO’s first Investment Round will secure sustainable financing for its core work from 2025-2028. Dr. Tedros and WHO representatives will convey the importance of investing in global health and a robust and fully funded WHO.
Climate Week NYC will take place from September 22-29, where WHO will participate in key events and panels highlighting the health argument for climate action. Climate change is not only an environmental issue but also a pressing health crisis, directly affecting millions worldwide.
As the world recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic and strives to meet the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, the WHO stresses the importance of investing in global health and ensuring a robust and fully funded WHO. With millions still lacking access to life-saving health services, the link between health and sustainable development has never been more critical.
WHO/Ruth Abla ADJORLOLO
