Day 3: GPHW2025

Day 3: GPHW2025

Global Public Health Week 2025

Global Public Health Week Day 3 Events

News

Mar 24, 2025

Global Public Health Week 2025: Day 3 – Innovations in Public Health – Wednesday, April 9th

On Day 3, cutting-edge advancements in digital health, technology, and equitable solutions take center stage, highlighting how innovation can bridge health disparities and foster global inclusion.

Time Event Format Link

9:00 AM GMT/1:00 AM CEST

Decolonizing Public Health in History

Panel Discussion/Roundtable (English)

Register here

9:00 AM GMT +6 /
5:00 AM CEST
Domestic Resource Mobilization: Addressing Complex Challenges to Decolonize Bangladesh’s Health System  Blog (English) Read here
9:00 AM CEST Strengthening collaboration between all health sectors: what are the challenges? Panel discussion and round table (English and French) Register here
10:00 AM CEST Nicotine Poses a Particularly Serious Threat to Public Health Webinar (English) Register here
10:00 AM CEST Perspectives from Young Professionals: Insights from Sarah Tan Video (English) Watch here
10:00 AM CEST Perspectives from Young Professionals: Insights from Maya Jones
Video (English) Watch here
10:00 AM CEST Protecting Older Adults from RSV – The Critical Role of Vaccination Video (English) Watch here
10:00 AM CEST Advocating for HPV-Induced Cancer Prevention in the Arab World Video (Arabic and English) Watch here
12:00 PM Palestine / 11:00 AM CEST Voices from Palestine: Young Public Health Researchers Speak Out Webinar (Arabic and English) Contact: duhashella@gmail.com
11:00 AM CEST Lecture on The Importance of Gender-Neutral HPV Vaccination Lectur (English) Watch here
11:00 AM YMT/12:00 PM CEST Patient Ownership of their Health Records Webinar (English) Contact: richardpeterfitton7@gmail.com
2:00 PM CEST Strengthening HIV/AIDS and TB Transition, Linkage, Retention Webinar (English) Register here
8:00 AM EST / 2:00 PM CEST Future of Oral Health: Transformative Initiatives Webinar (English) Register here
2:00 PM CEST Raising Youth Voices: A Discussion on Equity and Decolonization in Public Health Webinar (English) Register here
3:00 PM CEST Fueling Health or Harm? Clean Energy in the Global South Webinar (English) Register here
4:00 PM CEST Combatting Ethnic Disparities in Healthcare Webinar (English) Register here
3:00 PM GMT / 4:00 PM CEST Public Health Without Borders Livestream (English) Join here
4:00 PM BST / 5:00 PM CEST Global Men’s Health Equity Webinar (English) Register here
7:00 PM CEST Sustainable Oral Health Webinar (English) Join here (Passcode: 741245)
7:30 PM CEST The Science and Politics of Planetary Health Webinar (English) Register here
6:00 PM BRT / 12:00 AM CEST (April 10th) Conservatism & Health in South America Livestream (Portuguese and Spanish) Join here

Key Notes

– All events are free and open to global participants.
– CEST = Central European Time (UTC+1).
– Find the other events here: Day 1, Day 2, Day 4, and Day 5

Get Involved

– Follow #GPHW2025 and #HealthInnovation on social media.
– Questions? Contact secretariat@wfpha.org

Day 3: GPHW2025

Day 2: GPHW2025

Global Public Health Week 2025

Global Public Health Week Day 2 Events

News

Mar 24, 2025

Global Public Health Week 2025: Day 2 – Climate Change, Health, and Sustainable Futures – Tuesday, April 8th

Climate change is a public health emergency. Day 2 focuses on building resilient health systems to combat environmental crises and promote sustainability.

Time Event Format Link
10:00 AM CEST Perspectives from Young Professionals: Insights from Francelly Jimenez Video (English)  Watch here
10:00 AM CEST Perspectives from Young Professionals: Insights from Zara Ahmed Video (English)  Watch here
2:00 PM IST / 10:30 AM CEST Bridging the Gap: Culturally Responsive Mental Health Interventions Webinar (English)  Register here
10:00 AM GMT / 11:00 AM CEST The Role of Social Determinants in Health Equity Webinar (English)  Register here
12:00 PM EET / 11:00 AM CEST Public Health in Emergencies & Disasters Webinar (English) Contact: Dr. Duha Shellah: duhashella@gmail.com
1:00 PM EAT / 12:00 PM CEST Public Health in Action: A Case of Uganda Seminar/Webinar (English) Register here
12:00 PM CEST Health Communication and Education in a Changing Climate Seminar/Webinar (English) Register here

12:00 PM CEST

How to leverage AI into Public Health; youth perspectives

Virtual networking (Arabic, English, French) Register here
1:00 PM CEST Pasteur Network Climate and Health Accelerator Webinar (English) Register here
2:00 PM CEST Health Diplomacy in a Changing Rules-Based Order Webinar (Spanish with English live caption translation) Register here
3:00 PM Tunisia / 3:00 PM CEST Combating Drugs  and Their Impact on Public Health Webinar (Arabic and English) Contact: ASSOCIATION TUNISIENNE POUR LA PROMOTION DE LA SANTE
3:00 PM GMT / 4:00 PM CEST Decolonizing Public Health in Africa & the Tropics Webinar (English) Register here
 6:00 PM EAT / 4:00 PM CEST Learning from Young African Public Health Experts Webinar (English) Register here
7:00 PM BRT / 1:00 AM CEST (April 9th) Universal Health Coverage in Brazil Livestream (Portuguese) Join here
10:00 PM CEST/ 8:00 AM NZ (April 9th) Decolonizing Public Health Globally Webinar (English) Register here

Key Notes

– All events are free and open to global participants.

– Time zone notes:

CEST  = Central European Time

WAT (West Africa Time) = UTC+1

EAT (East Africa Time) = UTC+3

– Find the other events here: Day 1, Day 3, Day 4, and Day 5

Get Involved

Follow #GPHW2025 and #ClimateHealthEquity on social media.
– Questions? Contact secretariat@wfpha.org.

 

Day 3: GPHW2025

Day 1: GPHW2025

Global Public Health Week 2025

Global Public Health Week Day 1 Events

News

Mar 24, 2025

Global Public Health Week 2025: Day 1 – Health and Peacebuilding – Monday, April 7th

Peace is the foundation of public health. Day 1 explores health initiatives in conflict zones, post-conflict recovery, and health diplomacy.

Time Event Format Link
10:00 AM Dubai / 8:00 AM CEST Redefining Equity: Decolonizing Public Health for a Healthier World Panel (English) TBD
6:30 PM Sydney / 8:30 AM CEST Decolonization & Public Health: The Role of Curriculum, Teaching, and Learning Opening Ceremony/
Panel discussion
Register here
10:00 AM CEST Perspectives from Young Professionals: Insights from Michelle Herrera Video (English) Watch here
10:00 AM CEST Perspectives from Young Professionals: Insights from Rebecca Gilmour Video (English) Watch here
10:00 AM UK / 11:00 AM CEST Investing in Health Equity: The Economics of Pandemic Preparedness Seminar/Webinar (English) Register here
9:00 AM EAT/ 11:00 AM CEST Adapting to Climate Change Strengthening Somali Health Systems for Resilience Workshop/Online Training (English) Contact: cabdirisaaq452@hotmail.com
12:00 PM CEST Lessons Learned: Governing for Healthy People & Planet Seminar/Webinar (English) Register here
9:00 AM EST/ 3:00 PM CEST International Perspectives on Older Adult Social Isolation and Loneliness Panel Discussion/Roundtable (English) Watch here
9:00 AM EST/ 3:00 PM CEST From Colonial Past to Community Power: Transforming Global Oral Health Webinar (English) Register here
5:00 PM Jordan / 4:00 PM CEST The State of Public Health in the Eastern Mediterranean: Challenges and Opportunities Seminar/Webinar (English and Arabic) Register here

Key Notes

– All events are free and open to global participants.
– Time zone notes:
– CEST = Central European Time
– GMT = Greenwich Mean Time (UK)
– AEST = Australian Eastern Standard Time (Sydney)
– Find the other events here: Day 2, Day 3, Day 4, and Day 5

Get Involved

– Follow #GPHW2025 and #RedefineEquity on social media.
– Questions? Contact secretariat@wfpha.org

Why Inclusion in Science Is Essential for Public Health Progress

Why Inclusion in Science Is Essential for Public Health Progress

grayscale photo of man and woman holding their hands

Why Inclusion in Science Is Essential for Public Health Progress  

News

Mar 5, 2025

Science and public health are at their best when they are inclusive. Diversity in research leads to better outcomes, more innovative solutions, and a deeper understanding of the complex factors that influence health. Yet, recent efforts to dismantle diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives threaten to undo decades of progress. Inclusion isn’t just a moral imperative—it’s a scientific necessity.  

The Value of Diversity in Research

Diverse perspectives drive scientific innovation. When researchers from different backgrounds, genders, and cultures collaborate, they bring unique insights that can lead to breakthroughs in medicine and public health. For example, incorporating sex and gender into study design has improved our understanding of diseases and led to more effective treatments for all populations.  

The Impact of Exclusion on Public Health

Exclusion in science has real-world consequences. When certain groups are underrepresented in research, the resulting data gaps can lead to ineffective or harmful health interventions. For instance, women and minority groups have historically been excluded from clinical trials, leading to treatments that are less effective for them. Inclusive research ensures that public health solutions work for everyone, not just a select few.  

The Role of DEI Initiatives in Science

Diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives are not just about fairness—they’re about improving the quality of science. These programs create welcoming spaces for underrepresented groups, fund critical research on health disparities, and promote policies that ensure everyone has a seat at the table. Canceling these initiatives undermines the scientific process and perpetuates inequities in health outcomes.  

Why We Must Defend Inclusion

Inclusion is not a luxury—it’s a necessity for advancing public health. By defending DEI initiatives, we advocate for better science, better health outcomes, and a more equitable world. The global research community must stand together to protect these programs and ensure that science remains a force for good.  

Conclusion

Inclusion is the cornerstone of progress in science and public health. We can create a healthier, more just world by embracing diversity and equity. Let’s commit to defending inclusion in science and ensuring that everyone can contribute to and benefit from scientific advancements.  

 

 

Why an Assault on Science Anywhere Is a Threat to Public Health Everywhere

Why an Assault on Science Anywhere Is a Threat to Public Health Everywhere

selective focus phot of artificial human skull

Why an Assault on Science Anywhere Is a Threat to Public Health Everywhere

News

Mar 5, 2025

Public health thrives on facts, data, and evidence. From the discovery of vaccines to the development of life-saving treatments, science has been the driving force behind improving individual and community health for centuries. But what happens when science comes under attack? The recent assault on scientific research and institutions threatens not only the progress we’ve made but also our ability to tackle future health challenges.  

The Role of Science in Public Health

Science is the foundation of public health. It provides the evidence to understand diseases, develop interventions, and create policies that save lives. For example, global data collection and exchange have been critical in combating pandemics like COVID-19. Without robust scientific research, we wouldn’t have the tools to track outbreaks, develop vaccines, or implement effective public health measures.  

Why Academic Freedom Matters  

Academic freedom is essential for scientific progress. Researchers must be able to explore new ideas, challenge existing theories, and share their findings without fear of censorship or retribution. This freedom allows the scientific community to evolve, adapt, and respond to emerging health threats. When academic freedom is restricted, it stifles innovation and puts public health at risk.  

The Global Impact of Attacks on Science

An assault on science anywhere is an assault on science everywhere. The global scientific community is interconnected, relying on collaboration and the free exchange of knowledge. When funding for research is cut, when scientists are silenced, or when international partnerships are dismantled, the consequences ripple across borders. This undermines the progress of individual nations and weakens our ability to address global health challenges.  

What Can We Do? 

As members of the public health community, we must stand up for science. This means advocating for increased funding for research, defending academic freedom, and supporting scientists under threat. We must also educate the public about the importance of science-based evidence and its critical role in protecting health.  

Conclusion

Science is not just a tool for understanding the world—it’s a lifeline for public health. By defending science and scientists, we are safeguarding the health and well-being of communities worldwide. Let’s work together to ensure that science continues to thrive for the sake of our present and our future.

 

Advancing Children and Young People’s Health and Rights

Advancing Children and Young People’s Health and Rights

selective focus photography of girl hugging boy

Advancing Children and Young People’s Health and Rights

News

Mar 3, 2025

Children and young people are the foundation of our future, yet their health and rights remain underprioritized in many parts of the world. The World Federation of Public Health Associations (WFPHA) has taken a significant step forward by developing a Children and Young People’s Health and Rights Policy aimed at reducing inequalities and advocating for the wellbeing of these vulnerable groups. Let’s explore the importance of this policy, the challenges faced, and the actionable steps needed to ensure every child has access to the highest standard of health and rights.  

The Urgent Need for Advocacy in Children’s Health and Rights  

Governments primarily safeguard children’s rights, well-being, and safety. This includes supporting families and communities to address the social determinants of health—factors like poverty, education, and access to healthcare that significantly impact a child’s life trajectory. Despite this, a startling study by Robards, Myers, and Klein Walker (2024) revealed that only eight out of 130 Public Health Associations (PHAs) globally and one Regional PHA have policies specifically addressing women, children, and youth. This gap highlights the urgent need for advocacy and policy development to ensure equitable access to healthcare and integrated support systems.  

Article 24 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child underscores every child’s right to the highest attainable standard of health. However, the World Health Organization reports that injuries, interpersonal violence, self-harm, and maternal conditions remain the leading causes of death among youth. These statistics underscore the critical need for targeted interventions and policies to protect and promote children’s and young people’s health.  

The WFPHA’s Policy Framework: A Roadmap for Change  

The WFPHA’s Children and Young People’s Health and Rights Policy was developed by a dedicated working group comprising over 50 representatives from Public Health Associations worldwide. This policy emphasizes the importance of integrated care and comprehensive support from birth to 18 years, ensuring optimal health and well-being.

Key recommendations include:  

  1. Equitable Access to Healthcare: Ensuring all children, regardless of background, have access to essential health services.
  2. Rights-Based Approaches: Engaging marginalized groups and recognizing children as active participants in decisions affecting their lives.
  3. Preventive Health Measures: Strengthening primary healthcare and promoting vaccination and early intervention strategies.
  4. Mental Health and Trauma Support: Investing in mental health services and trauma-informed care for young people.

  5. Cultural Respect for Indigenous Children: Addressing inequities by prioritizing self-determination and cultural respect.  

The Role of Public Health Associations in Driving Change  

Public Health Associations (PHAs) play a pivotal role in advancing the health of women, children, and youth. However, the research by Robards et al. (2024) found that only 10 out of 130 PHAs globally have dedicated workgroups focusing on these groups. This lack of focus undermines efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those related to health equity and gender equality.  

The WFPHA’s policy serves as a valuable tool for advocacy, urging governments and PHAs to prioritize children’s health and rights. By adopting and implementing this policy, countries can reduce inequalities and create a healthier, more equitable future for all.  

Key Recommendations for Governments and PHAs

 

  1. Develop and Implement Policies: PHAs should create policy statements that advance the health and rights of women, children, and youth. 
  2. Invest in Early Intervention: Governments must allocate resources to early intervention and prevention strategies, particularly for mental health and trauma. 
  3. Promote Community Education: Educate communities about preventive health measures like vaccination and healthy lifestyles. 
  4. Strengthen Integrated Care: Ensure child protection, family support, and welfare services are adequately resourced and integrated. 
  5. Advocate for Equity: Address systemic inequities faced by marginalized groups, including Indigenous children and young people.  

A Collective Responsibility

The health and rights of children and young people are not just a moral imperative but a foundation for sustainable development. The WFPHA’s Children and Young People’s Health and Rights Policy provides a comprehensive framework for action, but its success depends on collective efforts. Governments, PHAs, and communities must work together to ensure every child has the opportunity to thrive.