Continuing the momentum of the “Let’s Talk Health” series, launched last month, UNITE’s members from chapters across the world delved into critical Global Health issues faced in their regions.
Safeguarding Universal Health Coverage in Africa: Threats from the Mass Exodus of Africa’s Healthcare Professionals
The first dialogue, between members from UNITE’s Africa Region took place on April 5th.
Despite recognition by the WHO that mass exodus of healthcare workers from already under-served countries risks severely damaging public health, there is little multilateral conversation around the issue. For many countries in Africa where this is happening, it compounds an already precarious situation, further impeding national efforts to achieve universal health coverage by 2030. The webinar reinforced the regional nature of the problem and need for urgent parliamentary intervention.
In Danger: HIV vaccine research and development in Europe
The second session of the Let’s Talk Health was held on April 19th, in partnership with the International Aids Society (IAS).
Experts discussed the potential of an HIV vaccine, the state of HIV vaccine R&D in Europe and beyond, the necessary advocacy and policy to support HIV vaccine R&D, and mechanisms for funding. Parliamentarians from the Western and Central Europe Chapter, namely from Ireland and France shared their countries’ experiences, and asked questions to the experts.
Stemming the Tide: Combating Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) in the Asia Pacific Region
Finally, on April 30th, the Asia-Pacific (APAC) Chapter convened to address the pressing issue of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR), exploring its profound public health challenges in the region and its far-reaching consequences.
With representation from various APAC countries including India, Australia, Nepal, Bangladesh, and China, as well as esteemed organizations such as the World Medical Association, Asia Europe Foundation, and Global Health Strategies, participants delved into the multifaceted nature of AMR and its implications for healthcare systems, economies, and sustainable development in the Asia Pacific context. The aim was to galvanize stakeholders to address the AMR threat collectively, emphasizing the significance of collaborative efforts and evidence-based interventions.