WCCS at the 78th World Health Assembly: A Front-Row Seat to Global Health Policy
By WCCS
Published On: May 29, 2025
Between the 19th and 27th of May, our European Regional Coordinator (RC) attended the 78th World Health Assembly (WHA78) in Geneva, Switzerland, representing the World Congress of Chiropractic Students (WCCS) as part of the World Federation of Chiropractic (WFC) delegation. The delegation included Prof. Richard Brown (WFC Secretary-General), Prof. Bradley Beira (Secretary-General Designate), Dr. Anthony Woolf (Co-Chair of the Global Alliance for Musculoskeletal Health), and Dr. Michele Maiers (WHO Official Relations).
The WHA is the world’s leading forum for global public health, bringing together health ministers from 194 UN member states and key non-state actors. Our RC attended the opening ceremony and various plenary sessions, side events, and strategic meetings. Alongside that, she was able to attend numerous side events and meetings, giving her a behind-the-scenes look at the important work happening throughout the event. These opportunities allowed her to engage in meaningful discussions with key stakeholders and gain insight into how the chiropractic profession can contribute to the shared goal of universal healthcare, with the vision of making it accessible to people of all ages and nations.
In his opening address, WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus reminded attendees:
“We are here to serve not our own interests, but the eight billion people of our world. To leave a heritage for those who come after us, for our children and our grandchildren, and to work together for a healthier, more peaceful and more equitable world. It’s possible. Our current crisis is an opportunity to do just that, and together, we will do it.”
Throughout the Assembly, key global health issues were at the forefront of discussion, leading to meaningful decisions and renewed commitments. Below are some of the most significant highlights:
- Adoption of the Pandemic Agreement
Member states endorsed a landmark treaty designed to strengthen global coordination and equity in pandemic prevention, preparedness, and response. The agreement is the result of three years of intensive negotiations, initiated in response to the far-reaching consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic. It aims to ensure better information sharing, equitable access to medical resources, and stronger support for health systems worldwide in future health emergencies. - Addressing Health Financing Challenges
With many countries facing reduced international funding, ministers emphasized the urgency of developing sustainable, country-led financing strategies. The focus was on leveraging domestic resources and using data-driven approaches to build resilient health systems. - Advancements in Universal Health Coverage (UHC)
Delegates reaffirmed their commitment to achieving UHC, spotlighting the need for inclusive policies that ensure access to affordable, high-quality healthcare for all—particularly marginalized and underserved populations. The importance of integrating services like primary care, prevention, and rehabilitation was widely discussed. - Strengthening Mental Health Initiatives
Recognizing the growing global burden of mental health issues, the Assembly called for its integration into primary healthcare. Emphasis was placed on closing service gaps, reducing stigma, and improving mental health outcomes through community-based and culturally sensitive care.
We sincerely thank the WFC for its continued support of chiropractic students and for making it possible to participate in this prestigious event—an invaluable opportunity to inspire and equip the next generation of chiropractic leaders and advocates.