Neha BaruahJP Nadda, India’s Minister of Health, has taken on the significant role of Chairperson for the 77th Session (RC77) of the World Health Organization (WHO) South-East Asia Region. This annual gathering brings together health ministers and key officials to address the pressing health concerns of over two billion people living in this diverse region.
Understanding the WHO South-East Asia Region
The WHO South-East Asia Region encompasses 11 nations, including India, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka, making it one of the most populous and diverse regions globally. With over a quarter of the world’s population residing here, the region grapples with unique healthcare challenges that demand attention and collective solutions.
Primary Focus of RC77 Session
The central aim of the RC77 session is to pinpoint health priorities and improve healthcare accessibility across the region. Delegates will collaborate to devise strategies for tackling emerging health threats and reinforcing their healthcare systems, ensuring a more resilient approach to regional health management.
Key Health Challenges in the Region
Razia Pendse, WHO Chef de Cabinet, highlighted several critical health issues that the region continues to face:
- A surge in non-communicable diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and mental health disorders.
- Persistently high infant and child mortality rates, especially among children under five.
- Escalating concerns over antimicrobial resistance, where diseases no longer respond effectively to treatment.
- The ongoing fight against tuberculosis, which remains a significant health concern in the region.
JP Nadda’s Vision for Regional Collaboration
In his opening address, JP Nadda underscored the importance of cross-border collaboration in healthcare. He emphasized that “health transcends borders,” encouraging nations to share best practices and experiences to build stronger, more effective health systems.
A Shared Roadmap for Progress
WHO Regional Director for Southeast Asia, Saima Wazed, called for a unified roadmap to guide countries in addressing their shared health challenges. Her focus is on protecting the most vulnerable populations—especially children and the elderly—through coordinated efforts and sustainable solutions.
Regional Initiatives Under Saima Wazed’s Leadership
The region’s health agenda under Wazed’s guidance includes several key initiatives:
- Strengthening emergency preparedness, particularly in the face of potential pandemics.
- Mobilizing additional resources, such as funding and medical supplies, to enhance healthcare services.
- Tackling the health impacts of climate change.
- Expanding access to healthcare through Universal Health Coverage (UHC), ensuring no one is left behind.
Nadda closed the session by calling on all participants to actively collaborate and innovate to improve the overall health outcomes in Southeast Asia. He stressed the urgency of taking decisive action to secure a healthier future for the region’s people.
Neha Baruah
