3rd Meeting of the Ad Hoc Open-Ended Working Group on a Science-Policy Panel

The 3rd Meeting of the Ad Hoc Open-Ended Working Group on a Science-Policy Panel is currently underway. Uniting experts and stakeholders globally, this event aims to develop strategies to manage chemicals and waste better and prevent pollution. This crucial gathering seeks to establish a new panel with influence and visibility comparable to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) and the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES).

In their opening speeches, key figures from the UNEP, the WHO, and the Swiss Federal Office for the Environment underscored the importance of a science-policy panel to tackle environmental health challenges. They highlighted the need for a strategic, multidisciplinary approach that leverages science and innovation to combat the global impacts of chemicals, waste, and pollution, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.

Prof. Andrea Rother, co-chair of the WFPHA Environmental Health Working Group, represents the World Federation of Public Health Associations (WFPHA) at this significant event. Prof. Rother brings extensive knowledge and dedication to environmental health, ensuring public health perspectives are integral to the science-policy discussions.

This meeting marks a pivotal step toward creating a robust science-policy interface that will guide effective policies and actions in chemicals and waste management on a global scale. The outcomes of this session are expected to shape future initiatives, providing a comprehensive framework for countries and organizations committed to environmental health and sustainability.

Ensuring Continuity of Care for Migrants: Challenges, Solutions, and Collaborative Efforts

World Federation of Public Health Associations Immediate Past President, Luis Eugenio Portela Fernandes de Souza, moderated a pivotal session on “Ensuring Continuity of Care during Migration” at the Geneva Health Forum last month.

Migrants face heightened health risks and barriers to healthcare access due to their mobility. Our discussion delves into the challenges and solutions, including digital tools and collaborative networks.

Speakers from organizations like Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), University of Athens, SOS MEDITERRANEE Switzerland, and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies – IFRC share insights to improve migrant health outcomes.

WFPHA Unveils New Policy Statements to Enhance Global Health

The World Federation of Public Health Associations has released new policy statements aimed at addressing critical health issues. Developed by various working groups, taskforces and members of the WFPHA, these policies cover the health and rights of children and young people, vaccine sentiment, public health and law enforcement collaboration, and Indigenous health.

Children and Young People’s Health and Rights

Submitted by Women, Children and Youth Health Working Group

This policy focuses on ensuring that children and young people have access to healthcare, education, and protection from abuse. It emphasizes:

• Universal Health Coverage (UHC): Ensuring affordable and quality healthcare for all young people.
• Education and Awareness: Promoting health education to empower youth.
• Protection from Violence: Strengthening legal frameworks to safeguard children from violence and exploitation.

Understanding Vaccine Sentiment: Identifying Obstacles and Opportunities to Boost
Vaccination Uptake Among Healthcare and Public Health Professionals

Submitted by International Immunization Policy Taskforce

Addressing vaccine hesitancy among healthcare and public health professionals is crucial for improving vaccination rates. This policy includes:

• Research: Identifying the causes of vaccine hesitancy.
• Communication: Developing strategies to address misconceptions.
• Training: Enhancing healthcare providers’ ability to advocate for vaccinations.

Engaging police and public health sector to collaborate for the public good

Submitted by Global Law Enforcement and Public Health Association (GLEPHA)

Collaboration between police and public health sectors can improve community well-being.

Key aspects of this policy are:

• Joint Training Programs: Addressing issues like mental health and substance abuse.
• Community Engagement: Building trust through joint initiatives.
• Data Sharing: Improving responses to public health threats.

Indigenous Health

Submitted by Indigenous Working Group

Improving health outcomes for Indigenous populations requires culturally sensitive approaches. This policy focuses on:

• Cultural Competence: Providing culturally appropriate healthcare.
• Access to Services: Enhancing healthcare access in remote areas.
• Community Empowerment: Supporting community-led health programs.

WFPHA Launches One Health Working Group

The World Federation of Public Health Associations has approved a new working group on One Health during its General Assembly on May 26, 2024, in Geneva, Switzerland. The group will be chaired by Prof. Xiao-Nong Zhou from Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, China, and Prof. Carlos Machado from Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Brazil.

What is One Health?

One Health emphasizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health. It is crucial for addressing global public health challenges such as zoonotic diseases, antimicrobial resistance, and environmental changes. Despite efforts from organizations like FAO, UNEP, WOAH, and WHO, fragmented policy implementation and lack of multisectoral collaboration persist. The One Health Working Group aims to bridge these gaps by fostering global cooperation.

Vision and Objectives

Vision

The group aims to strengthen global health security at the human-animal-environment interface by promoting global collaboration, influencing policy, and enhancing knowledge and capacity in One Health.

Objectives

• Promote Global Collaboration: Establish One Health platforms for interdisciplinary cooperation across health, environmental, and policy sectors.
• Enhance Dissemination: Advocate for One Health principles in global and national policies through policy briefings and communications.
• Improve Knowledge and Capacity Building: Develop and enhance One Health knowledge through scientific collaboration and educational programs.

Promoting Gender Neutral HPV Vaccination: Protecting Everyone Equally

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a leading cause of cervical cancer and other malignancies, including anal, oropharyngeal, penile, vulvar, and vaginal cancers. While HPV vaccination programs have traditionally targeted girls to prevent cervical cancer, emerging evidence underscores the importance of vaccinating boys as well. Gender-neutral HPV vaccination ensures comprehensive protection against HPV-related diseases and contributes to herd immunity, significantly reducing the virus’s transmission within the population.

To discuss strategies for protecting everyone through gender-neutral HPV vaccination, the World Federation of Public Health Associations (WFPHA) held a high-level side event in conjunction with the 77th World Health Assembly (WHA) in Geneva. This event featured distinguished speakers and leaders in the field of public health, advocating for the global implementation of gender-neutral HPV vaccination programs. The primary aim was to raise awareness and promote inclusive vaccination strategies that protect both girls and boys from HPV-related diseases.

Chairs:

• Dr. Michael Moore, WFPHA Past President
• Dr. Marta Lomazzi, WFPHA Executive Manager

Opening Speech:

• Dr. Rhonda Sealey-Thomas, Assistant Director PAHO

Speakers- Panel 1:

• Paul Kelly is currently the Chief Medical Officer and Head of Interim Australian Centre for Disease Control at the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care.
• Tshedar is the Chief Program Officer, Health Promotion and Risk Communication Division at the Minister of Health of Bhutan.
• Meerjady Sabrina Flora is the Additional Director General (Planning & Research), the Directorate General of Health Services at the Government of Bangladesh.
• Dr Jean-Marie Okwo Bele is the former Director at WHO Immunization and Vaccines Department.

Speakers- Panel 2:

• Jean Marie Okwo Bele is the former Director, Immunization and Vaccines Department at World Health Organisation & Consultant for AFR CDC

• Ibtihal Fadhil is the Chair at Eastern Mediterranean NCD Alliance, Former Regional Adviser NCDs , WHO/EMRO

• Martha Rebour is the Executive Director, Shot@life

• Tristan Amalda is theNOMAN President and founder

• Peter Baker is the Director of Global Action on Men’s Health