WHO EPW 2 Hearings - Health security and emergency preparedness: building a safe and secure European Region

Health security in the WHO European Region is at a critical juncture. Health emergencies, including conflicts, epidemics, and natural disasters, have doubled since 2013. At the same time, antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a growing threat, and there has been minimal progress in developing new antibiotics—only two novel antibiotics have been introduced in the past 15 years. If current trends continue, by 2050, AMR could cost millions of lives and trillions in lost global economic output.  The effects of AMR threaten the foundation of our health systems, making it harder to treat infections and escalating health costs. At the same time, the ongoing conflict, especially in places like Ukraine and the Middle East, highlights how health emergencies exacerbate instability and disrupt public health systems. As these risks grow, it is essential to shift from a reactive cycle of panic and neglect to proactive, systemic approaches that fortify health systems and communities. This requires global collaboration, preparedness, and long-term investment to address health threats while ensuring that health security is recognized as a key aspect of national security. Without peace, there is no health; as the saying goes, the best medicine is peace.

This hearing will explore the urgent need for strengthening health security systems in the face of growing threats. It will feature expert presentations and panel discussions on how to build resilient health systems that can withstand a variety of emergencies, from pandemics to conflicts. The hearing will focus on how health security extends beyond the health sector, highlighting the need for coordination across governments, sectors, and borders. Participants will discuss strategies for integrating health security into national security frameworks, ensuring that health systems are prepared and adaptable. Breakout sessions will focus on specific topics such as ensuring continuity of care during emergencies, strengthening community resilience, and tackling long-standing health challenges like AMR, non-communicable diseases (NCDs), and the impact of ongoing epidemics. The goal is to develop actionable strategies for improving preparedness and response in the coming years.

The key questions for this session will include: How can we shift from a cycle of reactive responses to a more proactive, long-term approach in health security? What role do conflicts and global health emergencies play in undermining health systems, and how can we better prepare for these disruptions? How can we ensure that health security is integrated into national security agendas and adequately funded to meet future challenges? How can we better equip health systems to address emerging threats, such as AMR, and maintain care continuity during crises?

Speakers to be announced