Health ministers and policy experts from 53 countries are convening in Copenhagen from October 27 to 29 for the 76th session of the World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Committee for Europe. Representing Latvia, Hosams Abu Meri and Ministry of Agnese Vaļuliene are participating in discussions on regional health status, policy, and organizational governance.
Progress and Current Health Challenges in Europe
The session serves as a platform for member states to review regional health performance. According to reports presented to the committee, the European region maintains its status as a polio-free territory, with a noted decrease in measles cases and overall improvements in disease prevention. Despite these gains, officials identified ongoing challenges. These include non-communicable diseases, mental health struggles, shortages in the healthcare workforce and services, and the health impacts of climate change.
Support for Ukraine’s Healthcare System
The opening of the session highlighted the resilience of the Ukrainian healthcare system under wartime conditions. Abu Meri reaffirmed Latvia’s support for Ukraine, explicitly condemning Russian attacks on Ukrainian medical infrastructure. International support remains critical to maintaining public health services in the country during the ongoing conflict.
Impact of Alcohol Restrictions in Latvia
During his address, Abu Meri presented evidence-based policy as a cornerstone of effective health management. He cited Latvia’s recent restrictions on the sale of alcoholic beverages as a primary example of successful collaboration with the WHO. Preliminary data from the WHO European Region indicates that in the five months following the implementation of these tighter sales hours, there was a significant reduction in deaths directly attributed to alcohol consumption.
Candidates Campaign for WHO Director-General Election
The session in Copenhagen marks a period of administrative transition for the WHO. With the election of a new Director-General scheduled for 2027, several candidates are using the regional meeting to campaign. Abu Meri held individual meetings with candidates from Belgium, Spain, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Indonesia. During the committee proceedings, members are also voting on representatives for the WHO Executive Board and the Standing Committee, while debating the establishment of new specialized offices for artificial intelligence and health, and for healthcare quality and patient safety.
Recognition for Outgoing Regional Leadership
Abu Meri presented a Ministry of Health Certificate of Appreciation to Hans Kluge, the former WHO Regional Director for Europe and a current candidate for Director-General. The award recognized Kluge’s support for the development of Latvia’s healthcare system and the professional relationship maintained between the organization and the country.
Strategic Planning for 2026 and Beyond
The final day of the session is dedicated to the adoption of long-term strategic documents. Key items on the agenda include the "Aging is Living" strategy for 2026–2030, which focuses on health and well-being across the lifespan, and a roadmap for integrating artificial intelligence into healthcare systems between 2026 and 2033.
Frequently Asked Questions
Candidates from Belgium, Spain, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Indonesia are actively campaigning during the Copenhagen session.
Latvia highlighted the implementation of stricter time limits on the retail sale of alcoholic beverages. The WHO reported a significant decline in alcohol-related deaths within the first five months of this policy.
What are the primary focus areas for the 2026–2033 roadmap for the use of artificial intelligence in health? The committee is finalizing a strategy for healthy aging titled "Aging is Living" and a separate roadmap for the implementation of artificial intelligence in public health.
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