Shaimaa Ahmed

The rapid digital transformation of health systems globally has brought about significant shifts in how health determinants operate in a digital ecosystem. Digital determinants of health, as highlighted in recent studies by WHO and the London School of Economics (LSE), represent a critical evolution in understanding health outcomes in the 21st century. These determinants include a wide array of factors, such as internet access, digital literacy, algorithmic validation, and data governance, all of which are shaping health outcomes in nuanced and complex ways. Key findings in the report underline the urgency of addressing inequities in digital access and literacy, with particular emphasis on vulnerable populations such as older adults, individuals with disabilities, and those in low-income settings. The report also highlights the disruptive potential of digital technologies, including algorithmic biases, dark commercial patterns, and the spread of misinformation, which can amplify health disparities if not adequately managed. This webinar seeks to unravel the complexity of digital determinants of health and their implications for health systems and policy-making. As part of the ongoing webinar series, Decoding Data and Digital Health, this session aims to provide stakeholders with actionable insights into addressing the digital challenges and opportunities within health systems.

On 16 January 2025, the World Health Organization will launch its Health Emergency Appeal for 2025. The event is being live-streamed from this page and on WHO’s social media channels, including on Facebook, Instagram, and X.

LIVE STREAM

The event can be watched live on 16 January 2025 at 15:00–16:00 CET (Geneva time). The recording will be available in the sidebar listing.

The world is at a tipping point. Conflict, climate change, epidemics, and displacement are converging to create an unprecedented global health crisis. Across the globe, 305 million people are in urgent need of humanitarian assistance – a staggering reality that reflects the unrelenting pressure on communities and health systems worldwide.

The 2025 Health Emergency Appeal (HEA) identifies the critical priorities and resources required to address 42 ongoing health emergencies, including 17 Grade 3 crises – the most severe. These emergencies demand a coordinated, well-resourced global response to save lives, protect health, and restore hope to communities on the brink of collapse.

Health is at the heart of every emergency response. From delivering life-saving care and essential medicines to conducting disease surveillance and supporting local health systems, WHO is leading efforts to safeguard the lives of the most vulnerable in the most challenging circumstances. Yet, as needs soar, the gap between resources and realities continues to widen.