Seeking an Intern for the WFPHA

The World Federation of Public Health Associations is currently looking for 1 Intern for the Oral Health Working Group.

WFPHA offers a unique internship environment for students in international health and development. Interns are given substantial responsibility for activities such as researching and writing articles for the newsletter, establishing contact with health and development NGOs worldwide, planning international conferences, and fundraising. Each internship is structured to suit the intern’s needs and interests, as well as the requirements of WFPHA.

During the internship, interns will further develop their writing and research skills and become more familiar with the key issues and actors in international health and development. They will have extensive networking opportunities as WFPHA is an international NGO in official relations with the WHO, and has extensive contacts with other organizations worldwide.

Key areas:

• Research
• Global Oral Health Integration
• Integration of Oral Health into Primary Care
• Oral Health and NCDs
• Digital Health

Qualification and Experience

• Student or graduate degree in the area of International Relations, Health-related Faculties, or are enrolled in a degree program.
• Knowledge of MS Office, Adobe
• English: a must
• Good writing skills
• Eager to work within a multicultural and international environment
• A good team player with a “can-do” attitude
• Good at multitasking and working with strict deadlines

Compensation

The internship is unpaid. Remote working.

Period

Starts in January 2026 for a minimum of 3 months (full-time) or 6 months (part-time). The internship may be part-time or full-time.

How to Apply

If you are interested in applying for the internship, please send your CV and motivation letter to Maria Mata at maria.mata@wfpha.org by December 1st. Please include in the Subject line: Internship application – Oral Health

Strengthening the One Health Approach for Climate Change Mitigation and Public Health Protection

As climate change accelerates, its impacts on human health, animal health, ecosystems, and social systems are becoming increasingly interconnected. At the COP30 Satellite Meeting in Belém, Brazil, on November 12, 2025, global experts convened to address these intertwined challenges and underscore the critical role of the One Health approach in mitigating climate change.

Recognizing that climate threats intensify emerging diseases, biodiversity loss, food insecurity, antimicrobial resistance, and social inequities, meeting participants reached a consensus on a set of guiding principles to strengthen One Health governance and integrate it effectively into global climate action.

1. Enhancing One Health Governance for Climate Action

Participants affirmed the need to embed One Health principles into climate strategies at global, national, and local levels. Strengthened governance frameworks must support coordination across human, animal, environmental, and social sectors. This integrated approach ensures that climate action prioritizes proactive mitigation strategies, rather than relying solely on adaptation.

2. Strengthening Global Anti-Epidemic Capacity Through Interface Understanding

The consensus highlighted the importance of deepening our understanding of the human–animal–ecosystem–social interface. By addressing zoonoses, emerging infectious diseases, biodiversity loss, antimicrobial resistance (AMR), food insecurity, and social inequities, particularly those worsened by climate change, countries can significantly bolster global epidemic preparedness and response.

3. Advancing Early Warning Systems and One Health Tools

Experts are committed to improving early warning systems grounded in integrated surveillance. Strengthening tools such as the Global One Health Index (GOHI) and promoting the sharing of best practices will enable timely alerts for climate-related health risks and support preventive, data-driven interventions.

4. Promoting Active Mitigation Strategies

The meeting emphasized shifting from passive adaptation to active climate change mitigation. Reducing hazards at their source, rather than merely reacting to them, is essential for preventing climate-related health risks and protecting communities before crises occur.

5. Facilitating Knowledge Exchange and Best Practice Sharing

Participants advocated for mechanisms and platforms that allow continuous knowledge exchange. Sharing proven One Health practices and case studies from various regions and institutions will strengthen global learning and accelerate the effective implementation of these practices.

6. Building Multisectoral Partnerships

The consensus reaffirmed the importance of multisectoral collaboration. Governments, international organizations, academia, civil society, and the private sector must collaborate to leverage their diverse expertise and resources in advancing the One Health approach within climate mitigation strategies.

7. Developing Consensus-Based Implementation Frameworks

Experts supported the creation of unified, consensus-based frameworks to guide the operationalization of One Health in climate mitigation efforts. These frameworks must align with the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being, to ensure global coherence and accountability.

8. Investing in Research and Innovation

Increased investment in research is essential to deepen understanding of the climate–health nexus. Innovation will be key to developing new solutions that address integrated One Health challenges and support sustainable climate action.

9. Ensuring Equity and Inclusivity

The consensus underscored the need for equity and inclusion. One Health approaches must prioritize vulnerable populations disproportionately affected by climate change and ensure that mitigation strategies do not widen existing disparities.

10. Establishing Monitoring and Evaluation Mechanisms

Robust monitoring and evaluation systems are needed to assess the effectiveness and cost-efficiency of One Health interventions. Continuous evaluation will support adaptive improvements and strengthen evidence-based climate action.

The outcomes of the COP30 Satellite Meeting demonstrate a unified commitment to elevating the One Health approach for climate change mitigation as a global priority. By enhancing governance, strengthening epidemic preparedness, building inclusive partnerships, and investing in innovation, the international community can better protect public health while addressing the root causes of climate risks.

This consensus marks a pivotal step toward integrated, equitable, and sustainable climate solutions, recognizing that the health of people, animals, ecosystems, and societies is inextricably linked to the health of our planet.

Integrating Oral Health into Universal Health Coverage: Why It’s Time to End the Divide Between Oral Health and Global NCD Agendas

There is no health without oral health.

For too long, oral health has been treated as an afterthought in global health systems. Yet the evidence is undeniable: oral diseases are among the most prevalent non-communicable diseases (NCDs) worldwide, affecting more than 3.5 billion people. From periodontitis to oral cancers, their links with diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and other chronic conditions are well established.

Now, the World Federation of Public Health Associations (WFPHA) has issued a powerful policy statement: Integrating Oral Health into the Global NCD and UHC Agendas — A Call to Action for Public Health Associations. The message is clear: oral health must be embedded within all national and global health frameworks if we are to achieve health equity and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Oral Health: The Missing Link in Universal Health Coverage

According to the WHO, NCDs account for 41 million deaths annually, representing 71% of all global mortality. Low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) bear the heaviest burden; 85% of premature deaths from NCDs occur there. Oral diseases follow this same inequitable pattern, yet remain excluded from most national NCD strategies and Universal Health Coverage (UHC) packages.

This omission undermines prevention, delays early detection, and perpetuates health inequities. As the WFPHA notes, oral health is “a mirror of overall health.” Neglecting it weakens entire health systems.

Why Integration Matters

Integrating oral health into UHC and NCD agendas is more than a moral imperative. It’s smart public health and smart economics. Countries like Thailand and Brazil have shown that embedding oral health into primary care systems reduces disease burden, improves outcomes for chronic conditions, and saves money.

Integrated prevention efforts like reducing tobacco use, sugar consumption, and harmful alcohol intake benefit oral and systemic health. By targeting shared risk factors, countries can create healthier populations and more resilient health systems.

A Call to Action for Public Health Associations

Public health associations (PHAs) sit at the intersection of science, policy, and advocacy. The WFPHA urges them to:

1. Adopt oral health integration as a strategic priority in your national advocacy agenda.
2. Advocate with your Ministry of Health to include oral health in NCD strategies, UHC packages, and PHC delivery.
3. Mobilize interprofessional coalitions that link oral health, NCDs, and health equity.
4. Monitor and report on your country’s progress toward integration.

By championing integration, PHAs can drive national accountability and ensure that oral health becomes an essential part of primary health care (PHC).

Engaging All Stakeholders: From Policy to Industry

The statement also highlights the crucial role of collaboration among governments, civil society, academia, and the oral hygiene industry by aligning their operations with equitable access, transparent pricing, and responsible marketing.

From Evidence to Action

We have the frameworks from the WHO Global Oral Health Action Plan (2023–2030) to the WHO Oral Health Resolution (2021). The evidence is clear. What’s missing is the political will and operational leadership to act.

Oral health is not a luxury. It is a fundamental human right and an essential component of global health equity.

The time for integrated action is now.

Read the original call to action here. 

The Global Breastfeeding Crisis How Formula Marketing Undermines Infant Health & What We Must Do

Breastfeeding is one of the most effective ways to ensure child survival and long-term health, yet aggressive commercial milk formula (CMF) marketing continues to undermine it. Despite 40 years of international regulations, only 48% of infants worldwide are breastfed as recommended.  

Let’s delve further into how companies exploit parents and healthcare systems, and how governments and healthcare professionals can combat unethical practices. 

The Formula Industry’s Grip on Global Infant Nutrition  

While breastfeeding is biologically natural, billion-dollar corporations have made formula feeding seem “normal.” Yet, the science is clear: breastfeeding prevents disease and boosts development. Especially when considering how unsafe water can make formula feeding deadly.

1. How Formula Marketing Undermines Breastfeeding Rates  

•  CMF sales grow yearly, with companies targeting social media, doctors, and hospitals to push products.  
•  Only 33 out of 194 countries fully enforce the International Code of Breast-milk Substitutes.  
• False health claims and free samples discourage breastfeeding, especially in vulnerable communities.  

2. Why Breastfeeding Matters: Lifesaving Benefits  

• Reduces infant mortality by protecting against diarrhea, pneumonia, and malnutrition.
• Lowers chronic disease risks (obesity, diabetes) later in life.  
• Supports brain development, leading to higher IQ scores.  
• Saves families money: Formula feeding can cost over $ 1,500 per year.  

3. Formula’s Hidden Dangers in Low-Income Countries  

• Diluted formula (due to cost) leads to malnutrition.  
• Contaminated water increases infectious disease risks.  
• Supply chain disruptions (e.g., wars, disasters) leave babies without food.  

Urgent Actions to Protect Breastfeeding Worldwide 

There are various actions we can take to protect breastfeeding. From fighting corporate manipulation and interests to providing women with more support, we can counter the influence of Big Formula. 

Let’s explore these points further:

1. Ban Predatory Formula Marketing

•  Enforce the WHO Code, which bans CMF ads, free samples, and health claims.  
•  Regulate digital marketing, which now targets mothers on Instagram and TikTok.  
• Penalize violations with fines and legal action.  

2. Support Mothers with Paid Leave and Workplace Policies  

• Mandate 6+ months of paid maternity leave (only 25% of countries do this).  
• Require breastfeeding breaks and private spaces at work.  
• Educate employers on the economic benefits of breastfeeding.  

3. End Formula Industry Influence in Healthcare  

•  Ban CMF company sponsorships of medical conferences and research.  
• Train health workers on breastfeeding counseling.  
• Remove formula samples from hospitals and clinics.  

4. Fund Grassroots Breastfeeding Advocacy  

• Support mom groups and lactation consultants in underserved areas.  
• Counter misinformation with social media campaigns.  
• Partner with midwives and community leaders to promote breastfeeding.  

5. Prepare for Emergencies with Breastfeeding Support  

• Prioritize breastfeeding in disaster responses (no formula donations).  
• Train emergency workers in safe infant feeding practices.  
• Stockpile breast pumps and lactation aids for displaced mothers.  

A Future Where Every Child Gets the Best Start 

Breastfeeding is a human right, not a corporate profit opportunity. So, what can you do?  

• Demand stronger formula marketing laws in your country.  
• Support breastfeeding moms in your community.  
• Choose ethically sourced breast milk banks over formula when needed.  
• Share this information: Many parents are unaware of the risks associated with CMF.  

By stopping predatory marketing, supporting mothers, and enforcing global policies, we can ensure that every baby receives the safest and healthiest food, breast milk.

Read the official Policy Resolution on Breastfeeding here. 

Gaza’s Public Health Crisis: A Call for Global Action and Justice

Gaza and Palestine’s public health systems are under attack. They’re collapsing. 

Genocide, governance failures, and the ethics of global health are to blame. Since 1967, the World Federation of Public Health Associations (WFPHA) has championed global health equity, evidence-based policy, and international cooperation. 

Today, we stand in solidarity with Palestine and call for urgent action to protect public health, human rights, and international law.

The Collapse of Public Health in Gaza and Palestine

The deliberate destruction of Gaza’s health infrastructure is more than a humanitarian disaster. It’s a violation of medical neutrality, the Geneva Conventions, and the right to health. When hospitals, health workers, and data systems are targeted, silence becomes complicity.

The Devastating Impact on Gaza’s Health System (October 2023 – Present)

While the oppression of Palestinians predates October 2023, the escalation of war crimes, ethnic displacement, and genocide has led to catastrophic outcomes:

• Over 80% of Gaza’s infrastructure has been destroyed 
• At least 94% of all hospitals in the Gaza Strip are damaged or destroyed 
• Over 1,400 health workers and nearly 300 UN staff have been killed in Gaza 
• On average, more than 10 children lose one or more limbs daily, making the Gaza Strip now have the highest number of child amputees per capita in the world 
• 2024 became the deadliest year for journalists, with 70% being killed by Israel
• Life expectancy in Gaza has fallen by over 30 years

These statistics highlight the bleak reality: a deliberate dismantling of public health.

Weaponized Famine and Health as a Target 

Gaza faces manufactured famine, with siege tactics blocking food and medical aid. Children are highlighted because they’re the most innocent. But it’s not just children. Everyone in Gaza is being starved and killed. The elderly, pregnant women, the sick, people with disabilities, ordinary men and women. No one is safe. Starvation isn’t a side effect but rather a weapon of war.  

Legal experts, UN Special Rapporteurs, Amnesty International, and the Lemkin Institute, among several others, confirm this meets the criteria for genocide under international law. Public health has been systematically weaponized through:

• Bombing hospitals and clinics
• Blocking medical supplies
• Destroying vaccination programs and health data
• Targeting public health education

When is enough, enough? 

Global Health Governance Failures 

Despite Palestine’s observer status at the World Health Assembly, its health system has been destroyed with no meaningful intervention. The WHO, ECOSOC, and global health institutions face a crisis of credibility if they fail to act.

WFPHA’s Call to Action: Justice, Protection, and Accountability

We demand immediate action, not just advocacy:

1. Immediate Ceasefire and Protection of Civilians 

• Unconditional, internationally monitored ceasefire

2. Restore Gaza’s Health System 

• Guaranteed humanitarian corridors
• Protection for health workers and facilities
• Independent investigations into violations

3. Legal Accountability for War Crimes 

• Activate ICC and universal jurisdiction for attacks on health systems

4. Global Health Emergency Declaration 

• Invest in infrastructure, vaccinations, and data recovery

5. Support Displaced Health Workers 

• Academic sanctuary, mentorship, and employment aid

6. Permanent Conflict Health Monitoring 

• WFPHA and WHO must develop real-time monitoring tools

7. Mobilize the Public Health Community 

• National associations must document violations and speak out

Health Requires Peace as Silence is Complicity

This goes beyond Gaza and Palestine. We demand adherence to public health, human rights, and international law. Neutrality isn’t an option. Never again must mean never again for everyone.

Health demands peace. Public health demands courage.
The time for both is now.

Signed,
World Federation of Public Health Associations (WFPHA)

Read the Lancet correspondence letter here

Read the original call to action statement here

Read the original call to action statement in Arabic

Read the original call to action statement in Spanish