30th session: Racism and colonialism and child health
Time: Monday, 10 February 2025, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Place: The meeting is open to the public and will be broadcast on www.bundestag.de

It is possible to follow the meeting of the Subcommittee on Global Health via livestream at www.bundestag.de.

The WHO European Region is facing a major demographic shift, with the number of older people growing rapidly. In 2024, for the first time in history, there will be more people aged 65 and older than children and adolescents under 16. The fastest-growing age group is those aged 80 and above, with women outnumbering men two to one in this group. By 2050, the number of people over 65 will double, and those over 80 will triple, with a greater number of older women than men. While an ageing population brings challenges, the real concern is the rising number of people living with chronic conditions and disabilities in later life. One in three adults lives with a chronic condition and rising to one in three older adults aged 65 and above with two or more conditions. This significantly strains health and care systems. Additionally, the health and care workforce are also ageing, with many workers nearing retirement and not enough younger professionals being trained to replace them. By 2050, the working-age population will be much smaller compared to the growing older population, which will put immense pressure on public welfare systems. To face these challenges, we need a fresh approach to healthy ageing, focused on prevention, better care models, and making sure people can stay healthy and active later in life.

The hearing will dive into how demographic shifts, particularly the ageing population, are reshaping health systems in the WHO European Region. We’ll explore the challenges these shifts create, such as the rise in chronic diseases, multi-morbidity, and the need for more trained health professionals. Keynote speakers will discuss the societal and economic changes needed to support healthy, productive ageing, and a panel of experts from across Europe will share their perspectives on tackling these issues. We’ll also hear from civil society, the health workforce, and academia to better understand the solutions needed. The session will include interactive discussions on practical strategies for promoting healthy ageing, such as improving health services, addressing health worker shortages, and fostering better community support systems. By the end of the hearing, we aim to have clear, actionable strategies to help build a more resilient and inclusive health system for an ageing population.

The main questions for this hearing will focus on how to address the challenges posed by an ageing population: How can we ensure our health systems can cope with the increasing number of older people living with chronic conditions? What strategies are needed to address workforce shortages and ensure health and care systems are prepared for the future? How can we ensure that everyone, regardless of age, economic status, or background, has access to the care and support they need to stay healthy as they age? What role should WHO, Member States, and other partners play in preparing for these demographic changes over the next five years?

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.

Zum Thema

Der Europäische Gesundheitsdatenraum (European Health Data Space, EHDS) soll nationale Gesundheitssysteme durch einen sicheren und effizienten Austausch von Gesundheitsdaten stärker miteinander verknüpfen. Ziel ist es, Forschung und Infrastruktur der jeweiligen Gesundheitssysteme zu verbessern.

Wie bei anderen europäischen Gesetzentwürfen, etwa dem „Data Act“ oder „Artificial Intelligence Act“, spielen auch beim EHDS Medizinprodukte als Bestandteil der künftigen Datenlieferungsarchitektur eine sehr wichtige Rolle. Die Erhebung und Nutzung von Daten hat für die Prävention von Erkrankungen sowie die Gesundheitsversorgung eine hohe Bedeutung.

Hieraus ergeben sich vielfältige Fragen:

• Wie ist die primäre und sekundäre Datennutzung vor dem Hintergrund des EHDS geregelt?
• Welche Anforderungen kommen auf die MedTech-Branche zu?
• Welche Potenziale können für MedTech-Unternehmen sowohl auf nationaler als auch auf europäischer Ebene entstehen?
• Wie sieht die Umsetzung auf nationaler Ebene aus?

Zielgruppe

Angesprochen sind Beschäftigte der Medizinprodukteindustrie, die Produkte entwickeln sowie regulatorisch begleiten.

Ziele

Das Webinar gibt einen Überblick über die Vorgaben des EHDS sowie einen Ausblick darauf, was auf die MedTech-Branche im Rahmen der Umsetzung zukommen wird.

Referentin

• Elisabeth Kohoutek
  Partnerin, Rechtsanwältin
  Luther Rechtsanwaltsgesellschaft mbH | Frankfurt

Moderation

• Natalie Gladkov
  Leiterin Referat Digitale Medizinprodukte
  Bundesverband Medizintechnologie e. V. (BVMed) | Berlin

The first hearing on 22 January 2025, "Confronting the Silent Epidemic: Tackling Noncommunicable Diseases Together," will kick off a series of discussions for the Second European Programme of Work (EPW2) 2026-2030. This series will focus on key health challenges across the WHO European Region, each tackling an urgent issue. The launch of this series is a major step in the development of EPW2, which aims to articulate a shared vision for health and well-being in the Region, developed in close partnership with Member States, in line with their priorities for the future. Ultimately, EPW2 will be a collective resource to inform national and regional health agendas. It will also define WHO’s programmatic contribution to advancing this vision in line with the Fourteenth General Programme of Work (GPW 14), bridging Member States’ aspirations with WHO’s operational mandate. The NCD hearing will set the stage for the discussions to follow, bringing together a variety of perspectives to ensure that EPW2 addresses the health needs of today and prepares for future challenges.

Following a high-level opening segment for the series of hearings as a whole, this hearing will focus on the growing burden of NCDs, their impact on health systems, and the urgent need for action. Diseases like cardiovascular diseases, cancer, diabetes, and chronic respiratory diseases make up 90% of deaths and 85% of years lived with disability in the region. Despite being largely preventable or treatable, these diseases continue to cause premature deaths, especially in Eastern Europe, where the risk of dying from cardiovascular diseases is nearly five times higher than in Western Europe.

At the hearing, experts will present updates from the European Progress Report on NCDs, showing how the region is progressing toward global health targets. We’ll explore the links between NCDs, mental health, and global challenges like climate change and health security. With lightning talks, personal stories, and interactive breakout sessions, the hearing will dig into the health challenges we face and discuss ways to take action. It will be a chance to share ideas and work together toward achieving the SDG targets on NCDs and mental health. This event marks a key moment in our journey to build healthier, more resilient communities and health systems across the region.

Key questions for the discussion will include: Why have we made so little progress on NCD targets, and how can we speed up action to reduce premature deaths? How do NCDs and mental health connect with inequity, and how do these challenges relate to climate change, the influence of industries, and global crises? How can countries, cities, communities, and WHO collaborate to tackle NCDs and mental health with bold, innovative actions while strengthening health systems for better outcomes?

The 20th meeting of the Health in Eastern Europe & Central Asia Working Group is scheduled for 21 January 2024, 10–11 am (CET).

This session will feature the Medical Procurement Workshop by the Ukraine State Enterprise “Medical Procurement of Ukraine” (MPU).

About MPU:
The State Enterprise “Medical Procurement of Ukraine” (MPU) is the nation’s only authorized agency for the centralized procurement of high-quality medicines and medical devices funded by the state. Operating under the direction of the Ministry of Health of Ukraine, MPU manages state-funded programs, ensuring efficient procurement processes and the timely delivery of essential medical products.

Workshop Overview:
This workshop aims to deliver valuable insights and detailed guidance on participating in MPU’s procurement activities. Key topics will include stringent anti-bribery measand an in-depth exploration of Ukrainian procurement legislation. By addressing these critical areas, the workshop seeks to promote fair competition and uphold ethical business practices, fostering a transparent and equitable procurement environment.

Don’t miss this opportunity to gain a comprehensive understanding of MPU’s procurement processes and learn how to navigate the legal and ethical framework of Ukrainian medical procurement effectively.

This coming 2025 – amidst political turmoil and concerning geopolitical scenarios – prospects to be a challenging year for civil society organizations worldwide. To ensure that health-related human rights are not overlooked neither at the international negotiating tables nor at the local level, civil society must engage in constant and persistent advocacy and use its boldest voice in every forum.

Ahead of the 156^th session of the WHO Executive Board, this series of G2H2 policy debates offers a platform for civil society to remind everyone what are the “matters that matter” to us and why particular attention should be given to them. Spanning from the assessment of “hot” topics to be addressed at the upcoming Executive Board, to a detailed analysis of other burning technical or political matters that have been left out, each session will feature selected speakers which will guide us into an enriching discussion.

Check out this link below for detailed information on the webinars: https://g2h2.org/posts/january2025/

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.

Speaker Series N°9 - The Role of Research in Pandemic and Epidemic Intelligence 

The joint evening reception hosted by the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung and the GHA – German Health Alliance on 27 November will take place at the Akademie of Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung in Berlin.

This event will consist of two parts: a discussion on “Partnering to Strengthen Health Systems“, followed by a networking reception.

Germany, as a leader in global health, both at the state level and through an engaged private sector, as well as other non-governmental actors, plays a crucial role in international health cooperation. The discussion will bring together key stakeholders, including policymakers, healthcare professionals, and experts, to explore innovative strategies and collaborative efforts aimed at reinforcing healthcare systems in developing and emerging countries.

The agenda will cover topics, including sustainable healthcare financing, technology-driven solutions, and best practices from various organizations. The goal is to encourage a meaningful exchange on how to shape contributions focusing on equitable healthcare access while over 4.5 billion people worldwide currently lack sufficient medical care, particularly in the Global South. Light will be especially shed on how stronger partnerships between governments, the private sector, civil society, and academia can foster sustainable health solutions.

The subsequent evening reception will serve as a platform for further discussions on the significance of strategic health partnerships in addressing the challenges of under-resourced health systems, workforce training, and enhancing public-private partnerships for improved health outcomes.

Further details on the programme will follow and be published on the registration page.

We are looking forward to an inspiring and enriching exchange!

Dear Hub members, 

On Monday, 11 November, the Subcommittee for Global Health (Unterausschuss für Globale Gesundheit) of the German Parliament (Bundestag) will hold its 29th session on Antimicrobial Resistances (AMR).

The meeting is open to the public and can be followed virtually here: www.bundestag.de (in German only).

AHTS 2024 is the pinnacle of healthcare innovation within MWC Africa uniting the power of digital transformation with the potential of cutting-edge healthcare solutions. Join us to explore how “Innovating for Community Health, Resilience and Wellbeing: Unlocking the Power of AI and Emerging Technologies” revolutionizes healthcare delivery across Africa. Engage with industry leaders, visionaries, and policymakers to forge transformative partnerships and drive meaningful change.

The British Embassy invites to the Global Health Reception and Networking Event in support of the GLOHRA Workshop on AMR and Equity.

Date: Monday, 28th October 2024

Location: British Embassy Berlin | Wilhelmstrasse 70 | 10177 Berlin

Registration here

As global attention remains focused on critical health challenges, the importance of strengthening international cooperation to address a range of health threats has never been more apparent. From ensuring equitable access to healthcare to tackling the rising threat of Anti-Microbial Resistance (AMR), global health is at a crossroads. These challenges not only impact public health but also pose significant risks to economic stability, food security, and sustainable development.

The upcoming UNGA High-Level Meeting on AMR, scheduled for 26th September, offers a key opportunity to assess progress and renew commitments to combat one of the most pressing health threats. In October, the World Health Summit will provide a vital platform for advancing discussions on broader global health priorities, including universal health coverage, pandemic preparedness, and innovation in healthcare.

We would like to take this moment to recognize the remarkable collaboration and dedication of the global health community and to offer our continued support in facilitating dialogue between its members. Together, we can work towards a healthier and more resilient world for the generations to come.

16:00-17:30 CEST | Tuesday 15th October 2024 
Side Event | World Health Summit | Manila Lounge 

As the global health community contends with the escalating challenges posed by the climate emergency, the need for critical investments in Climate Services for Health are paramount.

From extreme weather to shifting disease burdens, malnutrition to the quality of the air we breathe, unprecedented rising temperatures to societal mental health impacts, it is clear that climate and human health are inextricably linked. And yet, climate data is rarely exploited to manage health risks - despite our growing awareness of the consequential direct and indirect effects of the climate and climate change upon our health.

The 2023 WMO State of Climate Services for Health report states that immense opportunity lies in our ability to integrate climate information into health delivery and planning. If we are to ensure that we can respond to the greatest threat of the 21st century, climate and health data and decision-making must be integrated.

This side event at the World Health Summit aims to highlight the value of developing a strong ecosystem for Climate Services for Health and spotlight some of the risks of failing to do so properly. Please join us as we bring key actors from across climate and health to discuss why rising to this challenge is so vital and understand how we can prioritise the urgently needed investments, coordination, and commitments in this space to protect global health in a changing climate.

Please register below, and forward any questions about this event to Ben Ryder, Research Manager for Climate Impacts & Adaptation at Wellcome (b.ryder@wellcome.org)

NB: Please note that you must have a valid registration for the WHS to join this event in person.

Registration via: https://web.cvent.com/event/bf673d11-b119-4728-81a2-e3cae0f31a9a 

This event will bring together members of public health authorities, international organizations, health leaders, representatives from parliament, and civil society. Together, they will present current evidence, share best practices, and explore key policy measures to enhance the optimized use of antibiotics.

• What are the implications of the recent United Nations declaration on antimicrobial resistance for strategic approaches to combating AMR globally?
• How do accurate and timely diagnostics contribute to the effective management of AMR, and what are the main barriers to the widespread adoption of diagnostic tools?
• How are diagnostics currently integrated into National Action Plans on AMR?
• What specific roles can different stakeholders (government, private sector, NGOs) play in advancing the use of point-of-care diagnostics in AMR?

Feel free to contact me if you any questions.

Bests

Ali

Virchow-ESMT Lecture “Health and Sustainability for Thriving Futures” 

October 11, 2024, 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., followed by a lunch reception
ESMT Berlin, Schlossplatz 1, 10178 Berlin and via livestream

This event will take place on campus and online. To attend the event in person, please register here. To attend the event online, please click here. 

ESMT Berlin and the Virchow Foundation are delighted to host the distinguished Virchow Lectures in honour of Lucy Gilson and Johan Rockström, the Virchow Prize 2024 Laureates. They will explore the critical and timely topic of holistic and systems-based approaches to safeguarding “Health for All” and the interconnectedness of health with the different levels of health systems, the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the planetary boundaries of environmental sustainability, highlighting the importance of integrated strategies to address complex global challenges towards our common goal of attaining SDG3 “Good Health and Well-being.”

The German-East European & Central Asian Health Forum, organised by the German Eastern Business Association and the German Health Alliance as an Official Side Event of the World Health Summit, provides a framework for exchange and networking with decision-makers from Germany and the partner countries, company representatives, experts and researchers.

The seventh edition of the Forum will be dedicated to the topic “Advancing Healthcare Together: Investments and Partnerships”.

In recent years, the healthcare systems in East Europe and Central Asia have witnessed significant developments and transformations. Governments in the region have been actively focusing on improving healthcare infrastructure, increasing access to quality medical services, and implementing health policy reforms. Efforts have been made to enhance healthcare financing mechanisms and promote public-private partnerships to address the diverse healthcare needs of their populations. Additionally, advancements in medical technology and digital health solutions have played a pivotal role in improving healthcare delivery and patient outcomes.

Despite witnessing advancements in recent years, the healthcare systems in East Europe and Central Asia continue to face ongoing challenges. These include disparities in the distribution of healthcare resources, shortages in the healthcare workforce, and the rising prevalence of non-communicable diseases. These issues remain areas of concern that require attention and collaborative efforts to address effectively.

As the region continues to evolve, stakeholders remain committed to fostering innovation, cooperation, and cross-border collaborations to ensure sustainable and equitable healthcare development in East Europe and Central Asia.

We would like to offer you an exchange with high-ranking decision-makers from our partner countries as well as representatives of leading companies and experts from the health sector.

The Forum takes place as an on-site conference in Berlin. The working language is English.

Participation is free of charge.

AGENDA

Venue: KMPG, Heidestraße 58 · 10557 Berlin

Public live viewing followed by a discussion.

Monday, 7 October 2024 | 11.00 am - 1.00 pm
Auditorium in the "Charité Crossover - CCO"
Charité Campus Mitte | Virchowweg 6 | 10117 Berlin

The Stockholm Nobel Committee will announce this year's Nobel Laureates in Physiology or Medicine on 7 October 2024.
Colleagues from medical/biological institutions, journalists and students can experience this exciting moment at the Nobel Live Viewing.

Organised by the Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, the Virchow Foundation, the Charité Foundation and the Berlin Medical Society, this special ritual will once again be used this year to discuss current issues over coffee and biscuits.

Immediately following the Nobel Committee's press conference in Stockholm at 11.30 a.m., which will be broadcast via livestream, experts from Berlin will comment on the research of the new prizewinners, place the award-winning work in the respective research contexts and work in the respective research contexts and will be available to answer questions.

Regarding your participation in the event, we kindly ask for your feedback by Friday, 4 October 2024 at the latest.
Until this date, it is also possible to submit "bets" on this year's award winner(s) in writing by e-mail to
annette.welling@virchow.foundation. A valuable prize awaits the winner!

Location: Robert Koch Institute, Nordufer 20, 13353 Berlin, Historical lecture hall, and online via WebEx Webinar (hybrid)

Speaker: Dr Musa Sadock, Department of History, University of Dar es Salaam

Registration of public attendees for on-site participation or requests for confirmation of participation by 1 Octobre 2024 at please contact ZIG-Talks@rki.de.

See here for more information: RKI - Homepage