On Wednesday 20 May in Geneva, the WHA79 General Segment of the World Health Organization focused on strengthening multilateral cooperation in global health. Delegations emphasized shared responsibility in addressing global health challenges, reaffirmed support for the WHO’s coordinating role, and discussed reforms to strengthen health systems, improve equity, and respond to ongoing challenges such as conflict, displacement, and climate-related health risks.

In her statement during the General Debate, H.E. Marie-Thérèse Pictet-Althann stressed that health is a universal right and a shared human responsibility. She called for stronger primary healthcare systems, a shift toward prevention, wider access to digital health and innovation, and greater attention to mental health, highlighting the need for long-term, people-centered and solidarity-based global health action.