The Minister of Health reached an agreement on pandemic preparedness at the World Health Assembly
Minister of Health Marija Jakubauskienė is participating in the 78th World Health Assembly in Geneva, Switzerland, from May 19 to 21. The most relevant public health issues are being discussed – the Pandemic Agreement on the prevention of potential pandemics, preparedness, and response, as well as the World Health Organization (WHO) budget for 2026–2027.
This year's theme of the international organization's representatives' meeting is – „One World for Health“.
The Minister participated in bilateral and multilateral meetings. A meeting was held with the Ministers of Health of Estonia, Latvia, and Ukraine, during which cooperation, support for Ukraine, and regional challenges in the field of health were discussed.
"The current global situation presents significant challenges to the goals we are trying to achieve here in Geneva. Ongoing health crises caused by pandemics, mental health difficulties, issues related to digital technology dependence, and growing tensions in the geopolitical environment are affecting the health of millions. That is why no country can overcome these challenges alone. The WHO and its member states must remain vigilant and united in finding collective solutions to various problems," said the Minister of Health during the assembly, also expressing strong support for Ukraine and thanking it for its participation and for reminding the world that the war in Ukraine is still ongoing.
In response to the experience of managing the COVID-19 pandemic and the challenges it presented, on May 20, during the assembly, WHO member states reached a consensus and adopted the first global agreement on the Pandemic Agreement. This means that the prevention of potential pandemics, preparedness, and response at the global level will be strengthened.
At the session, M. Jakubauskienė listened to the annual report of the WHO Director-General, Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. The report emphasized the historic significance of the assembly, especially regarding the Pandemic Agreement and the organization’s reform. The presentation also reviewed the organization’s achievements since 2024 and discussed challenges arising from decreasing international support for the health sector and the WHO’s financial situation.
M. Jakubauskienė participated in an event focused on children's health and nutrition, organized by the Ukrainian Ministry of Health in collaboration with France and Japan.
Throughout all the meetings, Lithuania emphasized its support for Ukraine and its commitment to contributing to the development of resilient health systems at both the national and international levels.
You can find more information about the World Health Assembly here.
Last updated: 22-05-2025
Related news:
The Minister of Health participated in the EU Council of Ministers meeting in Luxembourg
Experience from Ukraine – for Strengthening Lithuania's Health System
The traps of sugar and sweeteners – tips on how to reduce their consumption
Honored Lithuanian Medical Professionals Awarded
From now on, "E. sveikata" (E-health) is also available to patients through a mobile app