H/Advisors Associate Partner Emma Turnbull attended this year’s World Health Assembly in Geneva and shares her perspective on the key takeaways  

In the Thick of It  

Each May, Geneva transforms into a hub of global health diplomacy as the World Health Assembly (WHA) convenes to shape the policies and strategic direction of the World Health Organization (WHO). But beyond its formal function, the WHA is a melting pot of civil society organisations, policymakers, patient advocates, industry representatives, medical associations, journalists, and lobbyists—essentially anyone invested in the future of global health. 

At this year’s WHA, budget constraints and political shifts set the tone for discussions, while the Director-General’s ambition to push through the Pandemic Agreement drew significant attention. And, as always, the real action happened outside the formal sessions—on the fringes—where crucial conversations and collaborations took shape. 

In the Palais des Nations: The Politics of Global Health Funding 

The withdrawal of U.S. funding from global health and development programs created ripples across WHA deliberations, prompting WHO staff and civil society leaders to explore alternative financing avenues. The WHO Foundation emerged as a promising bridge between donors and implementers, signaling a potential increase in partnerships with the private sector in the coming years. 

Meanwhile, delegates were captivated by the push to pass the Pandemic Agreement, designed to enhance pandemic preparedness through greater collaboration with pharmaceutical companies. While the agreement succeeded in clearing this hurdle, uncertainty lingers over its implementation. Intellectual property rights and national sovereignty are expected to remain contentious topics, with further debate ahead of next year’s WHA vote. 

On the Fringes: Where Ideas Gain Momentum 

The true dynamism of the WHA lies in its fringe events, where side discussions thrive in hotel conference rooms and academic centers. These gatherings offer a space for exchanging ideas, fostering connections, and shaping future initiatives—charged with the optimism that comes from being surrounded by like-minded peers. 

A dominant theme at this year’s fringe events was preparation for September’s UN General Assembly (UNGA), which will focus on the prevention and management of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) at a High-Level Meeting. The draft political declaration was met with mixed reactions, prompting robust critique and debate among civil society representatives. With responses now being published, keeping an eye on emerging themes in the lead-up to UNGA will be essential. 

For those attending future WHA events, the fringe sessions serve as invaluable arenas for engagement. Most last between 90 minutes to two hours. Arriving early is wise—not only for securing a good seat but also for informal networking, which isn’t always built into the agenda.  

Those fringe events which didn’t focus on NCDs, highlighted pockets of best practice championed by NGOs and spread across low and middle-income countries to the benefit of population health. Truly inspiring examples shared by sometimes little-known organisations which don’t always get the attention they deserve.  

Planning to attend next year’s World Health Assembly? Maximise your experience with expert guidance from H/Advisors. Reach out to us for insights on navigating discussions, connecting with key stakeholders, and making the most of every opportunity. 

Emma Turnbull, Associate Partner

H/Advisors Cicero

[email protected]