Internship in International Relations/International Law/Law Health

The World Federation of Public Health Associations (WFPHA) is looking for one intern in the area of International Relations/International Law/Law Health

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

During the internship, interns will further develop their 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 with official WHO relations and extensive contacts with other organizations worldwide.

The internship will be done remotely.

Qualification and Experience

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

Compensation

The internship is unpaid. The organization does not cover relocation expenses or sponsor international student visas.

Period

It starts as soon as possible and lasts a minimum of three months. The internship may be part-time or full-time.

Application Deadline

31st January 2025

How to Apply

If you are interested in applying for the internship, please send a CV and motivation letter to Maria Mata: maria.mata@wfpha.org

Mpox: Comprehensive Guide and the WFPHA Statement  

Mpox (formerly known as monkeypox) has garnered significant global attention, particularly after being declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) by the World Health Organization (WHO) twice—in May 2022 and August 2024. While cases have stabilized in many countries, the virus remains a public health threat, particularly in the Democratic Republic of Congo and several Central and Eastern African nations, where it continues to spread and evolve.  

Let’s explore what mpox is, its transmission, symptoms, prevention strategies, and the role of international organizations, includin the WFPHA statement on mpox, in combating this disease.  

What Is Mpox?  

Mpox is a zoonotic disease caused by the monkeypox virus, a member of the Orthopoxvirus genus. This virus has two primary clade lineages:  

1. Clade I (formerly Congo Basin clade) – More severe and associated with higher mortality rates.

2. Clade II (formerly West African clade) – Generally less severe.

Key Facts About Mpox:  

– Origins: It was first identified in 1958 in monkeys used for research, with the first human case recorded in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of Congo.  

– Transmission: It is spread primarily through close contact with an infected person or animal and contaminated materials like bedding.  

– Affected Populations: While anyone can contract mpox, it disproportionately affects populations with limited access to healthcare and those in humanitarian or conflict settings.  

Symptoms of Mpox  

The symptoms of mpox typically appear within 5 to 21 days of exposure and may include:  

• Fever, chills, and headaches  
• Muscle aches and back pain  
• Swollen lymph nodes  
• Rash, starting as flat lesions and progressing to pustules before crusting over  

Most cases resolve within 2-4 weeks, but severe complications such as secondary infections, respiratory distress, and encephalitis can occur.  

Prevention and Treatment  

Vaccines  

Effective vaccines against mpox are available and recommended by the WHO. These include smallpox vaccines, which offer cross-protection due to the relatedness of the viruses.  

Preventive measures  

Avoid close contact with infected individuals or animals.  

Practice good hand hygiene 

Use personal protective equipment (PPE) in healthcare settings.  

Treatment  

While no specific antiviral treatment for mpox exists, supportive care and antivirals like tecovirimat can help manage severe cases.  

WFPHA Statement on Mpox

The World Federation of Public Health Associations (WFPHA) has issued a strong call to action in response to the ongoing mpox outbreak. The statement, finalized in Geneva on September 18, 2024, outlines critical priorities:  

Health organizations, countries, and wider stakeholders can work in solidarity to protect people and stop the spread of pox. Equity should be embedded strategically in decision-making and at the heart of the response.

Support for WHO and Partners:  

The WFPHA supports the WHO, African CDC, UNICEF, CEPI, Gavi, the World Bank, and the IMF in coordinating efforts to combat mpox.  

Equity and Transparency:  

Drawing lessons from COVID-19 and Ebola, the WFPHA emphasizes equitable and transparent vaccine production, distribution, and pricing.  

Pandemic Treaty:  

The WFPHA urges all 194 WHO member states to intensify efforts toward a pandemic treaty, highlighting its necessity now more than ever.  

African Leadership:  

The WFPHA underscores the importance of African leadership in guiding the mpox response while fostering inter- and intra-country learning.  

Climate Crisis:  

The WFPHA recognizes the climate crisis as a root cause of zoonotic epidemics and calls for urgent global action to address environmental challenges.  

A Call for Collaboration  

The WFPHA also stresses the need for evidence-based public health management and collaboration across sectors to tackle the complexities of this outbreak, which involves multiple clades, diverse populations, and challenging humanitarian contexts.  

Why Mpox Matters  

Mpox exemplifies the interconnectedness of global health issues, where infectious diseases, climate change, and inequities in healthcare systems converge. As the virus evolves and spreads, it underscores the need for coordinated, equity-focused responses from governments, organizations, and communities worldwide.  

By prioritizing evidence-based strategies and solidarity, we can not only control the current mpox outbreak but also build resilient systems to prevent future zoonotic epidemics.  

Conclusion

Mpox is more than a viral outbreak—it’s a test of our global public health systems, equity in access to resources, and the ability to work collaboratively. As outlined in the WFPHA statement on mpox, concerted efforts at all levels are critical to ending the spread of the virus and preventing future health crises.  

Learning from past pandemics and addressing systemic issues can create a healthier, more equitable world.  

Read the original WFPHA statement.

Key Strategies for Overcoming Vaccine Hesitancy among Healthcare Workers [Report]

Vaccination is a cornerstone of public health, saving millions of lives annually. Yet, despite their critical role in administering vaccines and promoting public health, healthcare workers (HCWs) are not immune to vaccine hesitancy.

This article explores key strategies to increase vaccination uptake among healthcare providers worldwide, based on a comprehensive report by the World Federation of Public Health Associations (WFPHA).

The Importance of Vaccinating Healthcare Workers

Healthcare workers are essential in shaping public perception and trust in vaccines. Their vaccination status significantly influences whether they recommend immunization to their patients.

Despite this, global trends show an alarming decline in vaccine uptake among HCWs, driven by concerns about vaccine safety, efficacy, and personal susceptibility to disease.

This hesitancy seriously affects the healthcare providers and the vulnerable populations they serve.

Case Studies: Successful Vaccination Campaigns in Healthcare

The WFPHA report draws real-world examples from six WHO regions to highlight successful vaccination campaigns for HCWs. These case studies reveal how tailored strategies can overcome barriers to vaccination:

• Zambia: A hepatitis B vaccination campaign targeting healthcare workers and nursing students, featuring free vaccines, transportation reimbursements, and peer influence.
• Canada: An MMR vaccination initiative for healthcare professionals, utilizing mobile apps for tracking and reminder systems to boost vaccination rates.
• Qatar: An influenza vaccination campaign with strong leadership involvement, peer education, and mandatory declination forms for healthcare workers in high-risk areas.

Key Drivers of Successful Vaccination Campaigns

Several factors are crucial in improving vaccination rates among HCWs:

• Leadership Engagement: Leadership support is vital in promoting a culture of vaccination. Visible participation by senior management encourages vaccination compliance and builds trust within healthcare institutions.
• Peer Influence: HCWs are more likely to get vaccinated when encouraged by their peers, particularly when they witness vaccines’ impact on protecting staff and patients.
• Convenient Access: On-site vaccination clinics, extended hours, and mobile units make it easier for HCWs to get vaccinated, reducing logistical barriers.

Addressing Gaps in Data and Research

A critical finding in the report is the need for comprehensive data on healthcare worker vaccinations, particularly in low-income countries (LICs).

Designing effective vaccination strategies or allocating resources appropriately is difficult without accurate data.

Moreover, HCWs often need to be more represented in policy-making processes, leading to strategies that fail to address their unique challenges and needs.

Recommendations for Improving Healthcare Worker Vaccination

The WFPHA offers a range of recommendations to increase vaccination rates among healthcare workers, categorized into three levels of implementation:

• Entry-Level Strategies: These include cost-effective interventions such as educational materials tailored to specific concerns, peer-to-peer vaccination programs, and small incentives to motivate HCWs to get vaccinated.
• Mid-Level Strategies: These are more resource-intensive measures, such as on-site vaccination clinics, mobile units, and active declination processes in which HCWs who refuse vaccination must provide reasons for their decision.
• Advanced Strategies: Systemic changes include mandatory vaccination policies for HCWs in high-risk areas and data registries to track vaccination status. Advocacy for amending occupational safety laws to include vaccination is also a key recommendation.

Strengthening Occupational Safety Laws

In many LICs, occupational safety laws do not adequately protect healthcare workers through vaccination. The report stresses the need for governments to update these laws to ensure HCWs are protected against preventable diseases, ensuring both safety and sustainability for global health systems.

Conclusion: A Global Approach to Protecting Healthcare Workers

The WFPHA report highlights the importance of collaboration between healthcare providers, policymakers, and public health organizations in creating effective vaccination programs. By addressing individual hesitations and systemic barriers, these strategies aim to protect healthcare workers and their communities, ultimately enhancing global health security.

Read the full report here.

Environmental Health Working Group Co-Chairs Interview: Hannah Marcus, Andrea Rother, and Lwando Maki

We are excited to present an insightful discussion with the WFPHA Environmental Health Working Group co-chairs Hannah Marcus, Professor Andrea Rother, and Dr. Lwando Maki. These distinguished leaders bring a wealth of knowledge and experience in environmental health. Hannah Marcus is renowned for her environmental policy and public health advocacy work, while Andrea Rother is a prominent figure in chemical risk management and children’s environmental health. Lwando Maki brings a dynamic perspective with his sustainable development and community health expertise. 

In this interview, they delve into the critical field of environmental health, exploring how our environment impacts health outcomes and discussing global strategies to address pressing environmental health challenges.

Please introduce yourselves

Hannah Marcus: I’m Hannah Marcus, the co-chair of the WFPHA Environmental Health Working Group. I started as an intern with the group in 2019, then became a member, a young co-chair, and now a co-chair alongside Lwando and Andrea. Previously, I worked alongside Liz Hannah, our former co-chair. I’m based in Nairobi, Kenya, working with an organization focused on research in the humanitarian and development sectors.

Lwando Maki: I’m Lwando Maki from South Africa. I’m a medical doctor and public health medicine specialist. I am completing my second specialty in internal medicine at the University of Cape Town. I co-chair the Environmental Health Working Group with Hannah and Andrea. I have held various leadership roles in national, regional, and global associations/organizations, including the World Medical Association and the Public Health Association of South Africa.

Andrea Rother: I’m Andrea Rother, a professor and head of the Environmental Health Division at the University of Cape Town’s (UCT) School of Public Health. My work focuses on chemicals, pesticides, children’s environmental health, and the nexus between climate change and chemicals. I also work on risk communication and the commercial determinants of health.

What motivated you to pursue a career in the public health sector?

Hannah Marcus: Initially, I was interested exclusively in the biomedical aspects of health, but upon engaging further with material from diverse disciplines such as anthropology, sociology, political science, environmental studies, and international development, I quickly realized how much more multifaceted health is, and this stimulated a deeper passion for the broader social determinants of health and environmental factors affecting health outcomes. My internship with the WFPHA in 2019, working at the intersection of climate change and health, solidified my interest in public health and its environmental aspects.

Lwando Maki: My motivation stems from a genuine desire to help others and the recognition of public health’s role in preventing diseases at the population level. Events in South Africa, such as extreme weather and its impact on health systems, propelled me to focus on climate change and public health. Growing up in a community that faced significant environmental challenges, I saw firsthand how environmental degradation and climate change disproportionately affect vulnerable populations. This inspired me to pursue a career where I could address these inequities. I focus on integrating local knowledge and grassroots involvement into environmental health initiatives, ensuring that solutions are inclusive and equitable. Representing African voices in global health forums is also a significant driving force for me.

Andrea Rother: My research journey began with a focus on women in agriculture and protecting traditional farming practices, which led to an interest in pesticides’ negative impacts and their regulation in Africa. My master’s research focused on the effectiveness of pesticide regulations in Zimbabwe in protecting human health. Subsequently, my PhD focused on the impact of risk perceptions and risk communication on South African (SA) farm workers’ health. In 1996 I joined the UCT Department of Community Health to implement a pesticide policy reform project in all nine SA provinces. Joining a public health department set me on the path of integrating environmental health concerns into teaching, research, outreach, and national/international policy work – i.e., chemicals, pesticides, climate change, commercial determinants of health, and children’s environmental health. This culminated in me setting up a Division of Environmental Health at UCT, developing three academic programs (two online for pesticide and chemical regulators), and representing UCT and WFPHA in international chemical negotiations (e.g., developing a science policy panel on chemicals and waste). I work tirelessly to support the African region in these negotiations to ensure that protecting vulnerable populations’ health is at the forefront.

How long have you been associated with The World Federation of Public Health Associations?

Hannah Marcus: I started with the WFPHA as an intern in 2019. During that time, I led a global survey on governance barriers to climate adaptation in the health sector, the results of which have been published in the International Journal of Health Governance. From there, I gradually took on more responsibilities, eventually becoming a young co-chair in 2021 and now a co-chair.

Lwando Maki: I’ve been involved with the Public Health Association of South Africa, a member of the WFPHA, since around 2014/2015. My leadership involvement at the WFPHA in 2022 led to my current leadership role.

Andrea Rother: In 2005, I became the South African National Focal Point Representative for the Human Health Effects of Chemicals Project of the World Federation of Public Health Association (WFPHA), representing the Public Health Association of South Africa (PHASA). I officially joined the WFPHA Environmental Health Working Group in 2018. Early on, I began reporting on international work and negotiations linked to chemicals and health. I then transitioned into the honored shared leadership role with Hannah and Lwando.

Please elaborate on your working group’s current activities and share your vision and plans for the future.

Hannah Marcus: Our focus areas include climate change, chemical regulation, air pollution, One Health, and Just Transition. We contribute to the WHO civil society working group on climate change and health, where we’ve been involved in co-drafting and leading advocacy in favor of a new climate change and health resolution adopted in May 2024 by the World Health Assembly. We are now also involved in a WHO-led task force to support preparing a climate health education-oriented work program for COP29 and COP30. We also host interns for small-scale research projects and policy reviews. Our objectives include expanding membership, updating policies, and fundraising. Our vision is to convene public health experts, collaborate on issues, and influence global policy.

Lwando Maki: We support and advise our member associations, ensuring they are informed and capable of implementing climate-related policies. Our activities are aligned with the WFPHA’s strategic plan, contributing to mainstreaming environmental considerations into public health policies. I’d like to add that environmental health is deeply tied to social justice. Marginalized communities often bear the brunt of environmental hazards. For instance, communities in many parts of Africa face severe water scarcity and pollution, exacerbating health issues and poverty. Addressing environmental health means addressing these inequalities and ensuring everyone can access a healthy environment.

Andrea Rother: We represent the issues of our working group in international negotiations (e.g., chemical, climate change, plastics) and keep our members informed of current activities and negotiations. This allows members to contribute their insights into these discussions during our regular meetings and to incorporate current negotiated outputs also shared during these meetings into their own research, teaching, and outreach work.

How do the working group’s activities align with and support implementing our association’s strategic plan?

Hannah Marcus: Environmental health is a key tenet of the WFPHA strategic plan. Our work ensures that environmental considerations are integrated into public health policies. Climate change is a central focus, and we contribute significantly.

Lwando Maki: The strategic plan is developed with input from working groups like ours. We collaborate with other working groups and ensure our actions align with the strategic plan through regular reporting and feedback.

How has being part of the WFPHA and its network enhanced the activities of your working group and expanded its reach?

Lwando Maki: The WFPHA’s reputation and leadership attract experts to our working group. It provides access to global forums like the World Health Assembly and COP meetings. Collaboration with other sectors and network access amplify our work and enhance our activities.

Andrea Rother: Representing WFPHA in international chemical negotiations gives credibility to our environmental health-focused interventions during these negotiations. It has also supported our efforts to make health issues more prominent in environment-dominated negotiations (i.e., the health sector is extremely underrepresented, and few health ministries attend). 

How has WFPHA membership strengthened your group’s influence on international environmental health policies?

Andrea Rother: We’ve been active in sectors like chemicals, climate change, air pollution, and migrant health. Our involvement includes attending international meetings, signing letters, and drafting policy resolutions. For example, we helped draft a resolution on climate change and health adopted by the World Health Assembly.

Can you describe a collaborative project with the environmental advocacy community that had a significant impact?

Hannah Marcus: We collaborated with an institution in the Netherlands to develop a toolkit for public health professionals to support climate change litigation. Our member associations provided input through a survey, contributing to the toolkit’s development and dissemination.

How does the support from the WFPHA facilitate your group’s integration of public health approaches into environmental advocacy?

Hannah Marcus: The WFPHA provides a platform for integrating diverse public health perspectives into our work and bringing together diverse disciplinary experts in the field. Collaboration with other working groups ensures a comprehensive approach to environmental health issues.

Andrea Rother: The WFPHA offers access to global forums like the World Health Assembly, where environmental health issues can be highlighted and integrated into broader public health discussions.

Any last words?

Hannah Marcus: I want to reiterate the importance of collaboration and the collective effort to shape global policy on environmental health issues. The WFPHA’s support is crucial in bringing diverse voices and expertise together to achieve our goals.

Working Group Members:

– Hannah Marcus, Co-Chair, Consilient Research, Somaliland.

– Andrea Rother, Co-Chair, Division of Environmental Health, School of Public Health University of Cape Town, South Africa.

– Lwando Maki, Co-Chair, World Medical Association, South African Medical Association, Public Health Association of South Africa, World Health Assembly, South Africa.

– Liz Hanna, Chair (alumni), Australia National University, Australia.

– Peter Orris, Co-Chair (alumni), University of Illinois, World Medical Association, USA.

– Peter Tait, Member, Australia National University, Public Health Association of Australia, Australia.

– Chadia Wannous, Member, World Organisation for Animal Health, France.

– Ramon San Pascual, Member, Health Care without Harm, Philippines.

– Eliana Martinez Herrera, Grupo de Investigación Epidemiologia GEPI Universidad de Antioquia; Grupo de Investigación en Desigualdades en la Salud, Ecología y Condiciones de Empleo y Trabajo GREDS/EMCONET; Public Policy Center JHU-UPF. Asociación Colombiana de Salud Pública; Asociacion Colombiana de Epidemiología, Colombia.

– Joyce Shirinde, Member, University of Pretoria School of Health Systems and Public Health, South Africa.

– Shweta Narayan, Member, Health Care Without Harm.

– Jit Sohal, Member, Health Care Without Harm, Philippines.

– Guilherme Netto, Member, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (Fiocruz), Brazil.

– Mirwais Amiri, Member, Eastern Mediterranean Public Health Network, Jordan.

– Sayed Himatt, Member, Eastern Mediterranean Public Health Network, Jordan.

– Mohannad Jaghabir, Member, Eastern Mediterranean Public Health Network, Jordan.

– Haitham Bashier, Member, Eastern Mediterranean Public Health Network, Sudan.

– Deema Al Bakri, Member, Eastern Mediterranean Public Health Network, Jordan.

– Lea Merone, Member, University of Queensland, Australia.

– Annalaura Carducci, Member, University of Pisa, Italy.

– Susan Elliott, Member, University of Waterloo, Canada.

– Tara Chen, Member, University of Waterloo, Canada.

– Katherine Catalano, Member, Deputy Director, Center for Climate, Health and Equity, American Public Health Association.

– Sari Kovats, Member, Associate Professor in the Department of Public Health, Environments and Society at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, United Kingdom.

– Caradee Wright, Member, Chief Specialist Scientist: Environment and Health Research Unit, South Africa.

– David Patterson, Member, International Development Law Organization (IDLO), EUPHA-LAW, the Netherlands.

– Kris Ebi, Member, University of Washington Center for Health and the Global Environment, USA.

Global Health Equity and Digital Technology Working Group Co- Chairs Interview: Vina Hulamm and Timothy Mackey

The intersection of digital technology and health equity is a rapidly evolving area in public health, with increasing relevance in a globalized world. In this interview, we speak with Vina Hulamm and Timothy Mackey, co-chairs of the World Federation of Public Health Associations’ (WFPHA) Working Group on Global Health Equity and Digital Technology, about their experiences, motivations, and plans for addressing health disparities through digital innovations.

Introduce yourselves, please.

Vina Hulamm: My name is Vina Hulamm, and I’m one of the co-chairs of the WFPHA Working Group on Global Health Equity and Digital Technology. I also serve as the international liaison at the American Public Health Association (APHA), where I work closely with the WFPHA.

Timothy Mackey: My name is Tim Mackey, and I’m a professor at UC San Diego. I’m also the director of the Global Health Policy and Data Institute and co-chair this working group with Vina. Together, we’re focused on using digital technology to advance health equity globally.

What motivated you to pursue a career in the public health sector

Vina Hulamm: I was motivated to work in public health when I joined the APHA. My background was originally in international development, and I had been consulting with companies in Washington, DC. Once I transitioned to APHA, I became immersed in public health and started to appreciate its various areas. It opened my eyes to how impactful public health can be.

Timothy Mackey: My motivation to pursue global public health stems from my background of living overseas in countries like the Philippines, Germany, Greece, and Japan. Being exposed to different populations at a young age made me realize the importance of health across diverse communities. I became interested in how I could contribute to the global health space, especially as global health emerged as an interdisciplinary field during my master’s program. It felt like the right place for me to have a meaningful impact.

How long have you been associated with the World Federation of Public Health Associations?

Vina Hulamm: I’ve been associated with the WFPHA since I started working at APHA, which has been almost 18 years now. My role at APHA introduced me to the Federation, and I’ve been involved in various activities ever since.

Timothy Mackey: My association with WFPHA started in 2012 when I first presented at the World Congress in Ethiopia. Since then, I’ve participated in conferences and other Federation events. I’ve been co-chairing this working group for the past two years.

Could you elaborate on your working group’s current activities and share your vision and plans for the future

Vina Hulamm: Our working group focuses on key areas, such as providing a global platform for members and partners interested in health equity and digital technology, advancing research, and supporting evidence-based policies that strengthen WFPHA’s position on digital health and health equity. For instance, we’ve organized workshops on digital health innovations, human-centered design for Indigenous health, and the impact of the infodemic on health equity.

We’ve collaborated with the WFPHA’s Indigenous Health Working Group and other working groups on sessions at global conferences like the World Congress on Public Health in Rome and the APHA Annual Meeting. We’ve also hosted online events focused on digital health literacy, health security, and infodemic management. We plan to continue these collaborations, expand our research, and engage more deeply with members across regions, especially in low- and middle-income countries.

How do the working group’s activities align with the WFPHA’s Strategic Plan?

Vina Hulamm: Our activities align closely with WFPHA’s strategic plan’s goals, mainly promoting systems change and decolonizing global health. We also support goals for advancing public health knowledge, fostering new partnerships, and strengthening member associations. Our group includes members from a wide range of geographical and professional backgrounds, ensuring that we contribute to the Federation’s mission of global health equity.

How has being part of the WFPHA network enhanced the activities of your working group and expanded its reach?

Vina Hulamm: WFPHA’s strong connections with organizations like the WHO and regional public health alliances have been invaluable. These networks allow us to engage more broadly with national associations and other working groups within the Federation. The reach of these collaborations has helped us expand the scope of our activities and engage more members, which will be crucial as we seek funding and support for future initiatives.

How has WFPHA membership advanced your group’s work on health equity issues related to digital technology?

Timothy Mackey: The WFPHA working groups have provided a space for members from diverse regions, including low- and middle-income countries, to come together and discuss the challenges and opportunities of digital tools in public health. This diversity is crucial because it allows us to hear perspectives from different health systems and understand the varied impact of digital health innovations. Through collaborations with other working groups, we can bring in voices from young professionals, indigenous communities, and other marginalized populations to better address health equity through digital technologies.

How does your working group address the digital divide to ensure equitable access to health technology?

Timothy Mackey: Addressing the digital divide is central to our working group’s mission. We’re not just focused on technology for innovation or profit but on how it can improve equity. For instance, one project we’re working on with young professionals is a systematic review of digital health literacy, which includes considerations of the digital divide across different countries. We’re also exploring co-design sessions with young professionals and racial and ethnic minorities to ensure digital tools are developed with equity principles. We want to make sure that these technologies are not only accessible but also relevant and useful to the people who need them most.

What specific resources or collaborations facilitated by the WFPHA have been most impactful for your group’s projects?

Timothy Mackey: One of the most impactful collaborations has been with the Indigenous Health Working Group, particularly on Indigenous data sovereignty—ensuring that Indigenous communities control their data. We’re working with them to develop digital tools that align with these principles. Additionally, our collaboration with the Young Professionals Working Group has been instrumental in exploring how generative AI and other emerging technologies can be designed to advance health equity. These projects are real-world examples of how our working group is leveraging the WFPHA network to make meaningful progress in digital health.

Conclusion

The work of Vina Hulamm and Timothy Mackey highlights the power of collaboration in addressing health equity through digital technology. Their leadership of the Global Health Equity and Digital Technology Working Group under the WFPHA has brought together diverse voices from across the globe to tackle some of the most pressing challenges in public health. By ensuring that digital innovations are designed with equity at the forefront, they are helping to bridge the digital divide and improve health outcomes for underserved populations. As their work continues to grow, so does the potential for digital health to transform global health equity.

Working Group Members:

– Keren Dopelt, PhD, Associate Professor, Department of Public Health, Ashkelon Academic College, Israel. 

–  Mariam Hachem, University of Melbourne
ACADI, Australian Center for Accelerating Diabetes Innovations Australia.

– Daud Ahmed, BSc, MPH Director of Training and Capacity building /FETP program CoordinatorNational Institute of Health (NIH) – Federal Government of Somalia.

– Swarna Weerasinghe, Associate professor, Department of Community Health and Epidemiology, Dalhousie University, Faculty of Medicine. Affiliated Scientist, Maritime Simulated Patient-Oriented Research Unit, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada, Biostatistician, Global Health Promise, Portland, United States.

– Nahid Widaatalla, University Health Network – Toronto, Canada.

– Tugce Schmitt, PhD, Maastricht University, The Netherlands.

– Mimmie Watts, PhD Associate Professor of Public Health, Nursing, and Leadership, Federation University Australia Chair Australian Chapter, African Science Research and Innovation Council (ASRIC), African Union Commission Professor of Research (Adjunct), Fiji National University, Australia.

– Innocent Peter, Dr. Research Scientist/Study Coordinator, Kilimanjaro Clinical Research Institute Moshi, Kilimanjaro, Tanzania.

– Jasper Tromp, Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore.

– Meri Koivusalo, Finland.

– Massimiliano Biondi, Medical Director at POU AST Ancona, Italy.

– Yara Aboelwaffa, Senior Digital Health Advisor – Health. Enabled Honorary associate researcher – University of Cambridge, UK.

–  Tina Purnat, Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, Serbia.

– Amy Chan, School of Pharmacy, The University of Auckland, New Zealand,  Department of Practice and Policy, University College London, UK, Commonwealth Pharmacists Association, UK, International Pharmaceutical Federation, The Hague, Netherlands.

– Ramil Adhikari, Principal Advisor for the Ministry of Health/Te Whatu Ora. Executive Governance Member of the Public Health Association New Zealand (PHANZ).  Chairperson of the Wellington Branch of PHANZ. Justice of the Peace in Wellington, New Zealand. Board Member of KiwiClass. Advisor to the Nonresident Nepalese Association in New Zealand. President of the Nepalese Culture and Tourism Promotion Forum New Zealand. White Ribbon Ambassador in New Zealand. Ethnic Communities Lead in the Covid Directorate (Outbreak Response). Advisor for Te Kotuku e rere within the Ministry of Health.
Member of the Technical Advisory Rōpū (TAR) of Hauora Māori Tūmatanui, New Zealand.

–  Tiana McMann, MA – working group coordinator – University of California San Diego, S-3 Research LLC, USA.

Young WFPHA Working Group Chair Interview: Alessandro Berionni

Alessandro Berionni is a pivotal figure in public health. As the Chair of the Young Working Group for the World Federation of Public Health Associations (Young WFPHA), his contributions and insights shed light on the importance of young professionals in the sector. Engaging and empowering young public health professionals is crucial, as they bring fresh perspectives, innovative solutions, and the energy needed to address global health challenges.

Can you introduce yourself

Alessandro Berionni: My name is Alessandro Berionni. I am 29 and a public health medical resident at the Vita-Salute San Raffaele University in Milan. I currently live in Athens, where I work for WHO’s Athens Quality of Care and Patient Safety Office. Few people know I graduated from the conservatory as a classical pianist a few years ago. I have a deep love for music, the arts, and creatively innovative things. I also enjoy jogging with friends or walking while listening to good music in my free time.

What motivated you to pursue a career in the public health sector

Alessandro Berionni: I was a dermatology resident before moving to public health. While working in the hospital, I realized I was more interested in viewing health from a broader perspective. In clinical practice, there is often a strong focus on treating diseases without fully addressing their root causes. Public health, on the other hand, fascinated me because it focuses on the factors that lead to diseases and works to address them at their source.

I am also motivated by the sense of justice and equity in public health. I am especially drawn to making healthcare accessible and envisioning a future where everyone can achieve optimal health.

How long have you been associated with the World Federation of Public Health Associations?

Alessandro Berionni: I began working with the WFPHA in March 2023 when I became chair of the Students and Early Career Professional Working Group, which we later rebranded to Young WFPHA. Before that, I was associated with the Italian Public Health Association (SitI) and the European Network of Medical Residents in Public Health (EURONET MRPH) but not actively involved in WFPHA. 

Please elaborate on your working group’s current activities and share your vision and plans for the future.

Alessandro Berionni: Since March 2023, we’ve primarily focused on public health professional development, youth engagement, and global advocacy. One of our main projects is a survey designed to identify the challenges and needs of young public health professionals. This survey highlighted a strong desire for global impact, mentorship, and more opportunities. We’ve also researched digital and health literacy and launched various engagement activities, such as social media campaigns, webinars, and additional research opportunities.

Looking ahead, our vision includes strengthening regional and global public health networks, establishing regional representatives, enhancing communication through newsletters, expanding our membership, and providing more engaging opportunities. Our main goal is to strengthen a worldwide diverse and interconnected public health community.

How do the working group’s activities align with and support implementing the Association’s strategic plan?

Alessandro Berionni: The Young WFPHA aligns with the strategic plan through advocacy, capacity building, and fostering global health governance. We participate in local and international conferences, conduct webinars, and collaborate with organizations such as the Junior Doctors Network, International Pharmaceutical Students Federation, Health Equity Network of the Americas, the World Health Organization, etc. These activities support the strategic goals of increasing partnerships, facilitating knowledge exchange, and enhancing communication.

In what ways has being part of the Federation and its network enhanced the activities of your working group and expanded its reach?

Alessandro Berionni: The WFPHA has provided us with significant opportunities and support. It has enabled us to connect with high-level speakers and participate in key events, expanding our network and strengthening our working group. Additionally, it has facilitated our collaboration with numerous professionals and students on various research projects, enhancing our outreach and impact.

How does being part of the Federation benefit your group’s mission to represent students and young professionals in public health

Alessandro Berionni: The WFPHA provides a global platform and visibility for our initiatives, enabling us to connect with stakeholders at high-level events. This ongoing support helps us fulfill our mission of engaging young professionals across diverse disciplines. We aim to create a well-represented community that addresses public health challenges through collaboration and innovation.

What programs does the group offer to support the career development of young public health professionals

Alessandro Berionni: The Young WFPHA working group organizes networking events to develop the soft skills essential in public health. We also create specific sub-groups where students and young professionals can discuss and collaborate on projects, offering valuable exposure and knowledge exchange opportunities. We plan to launch a mentorship platform to support career growth and development further.

Any last words?

Alessandro Berionni: I always stress the importance of young people bringing fresh perspectives and creativity to public health. Every contribution, no matter how small, can make a difference. It’s about showcasing our work, fostering a positive attitude, and igniting enthusiasm for public health. The dream of a better, more equitable world leads us to achieve meaningful results with a global impact.

Alessandro Berionni’s dedication to public health and leadership within the Young underscores the critical role of young professionals in this field. Their innovative approaches and commitment to justice and equity are vital for addressing global health challenges and creating a healthier future for all.

Working Group Members:

– Alessandro Berionni, Young WFPHA Chair, Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Italy.

– Lwando Maki, Young WFPHA Vice Chair and Representative at the WFPHA Governing Council, Public Health Association of South Africa (PHASA), South Africa.

– Federica Castellana, Young WFPHA Secretary, Italian Red Cross, Italy.

– Duha Shellah, Young WFPHA Research Lead and Vice Chair of WHO EMRO Youth Council, Palestine Academy for Science & Technology, Palestine.

– Amilcar Juggernath, Young WFPHA Research Co-Lead, Public Health Association of South Africa (PHASA), South Africa.

– Marcello di Pumpo, Young WFPHA Research Co-Lead, Project Lead, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Italy.

– Anke Kotze, Young WFPHA Communication Lead, Cornell University, USA.

– Melissa Sawaya, Young WFPHA Communication Co-Lead, Université Paris-Saclay, France.

– Alexandria Chung, Young WPFHA Communication Co-Lead, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM), UK.

– Mustakim, Young WFPHA Membership Lead, Indonesian Public Health Association, Indonesia.

– Luis Fernando Solis Calvo, Young WFPHA Networking Lead, The Health Equity Network of the Americas (HENA).

– David Peyre Costa, Young WPFHA Partnership Lead, University of Trosmø, Norway.

– Augusto Baron, Young WFPHA representative at the Quadripartite Working Group for Youth Engagement, Colegio Médico de Honduras, Honduras.

– Haleluya Leulseged, Young WFPHA Project Management, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM).

– Francesco Andrea Causio, Young WPFHA Project Lead, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Italy.

– Nunzio Zotti, Young WFPHA Project Lead, Università di Pisa, Italy.

– 劉憬勲 Ching-Hsun “Walter” Liu, Young WFPHA Project Lead, Federation of Public Health Student Associations in Taiwan, Taiwan.