Reflecting on 2024: A Year of Global Health Milestones with WHO

The year 2024 is ending. The World Health Organization (WHO) has shared an inspiring overview of achievements. It highlights milestones in global health. This year has been pivotal in addressing health inequities, advancing innovative solutions, and responding to ongoing health crises.

Strengthening Universal Health Coverage (UHC)

A cornerstone of WHO’s mission, Universal Health Coverage (UHC), has seen remarkable progress in 2024. Efforts to make quality health services accessible to everyone, everywhere, without financial hardship have gained momentum. WHO has actively supported countries in strengthening primary healthcare systems, recognizing them as the foundation for achieving UHC.

Notable highlights include the adoption of national health strategies in several low- and middle-income countries. These strategies aim to bridge gaps in healthcare access. Digital technologies have played a transformative role. They enable more equitable healthcare delivery. Digital integration empowers communities with information about their health.

Responding to Global Health Emergencies

The year 2024 has been marked by continued vigilance in responding to health emergencies. These include pandemics, natural disasters, and conflict zones. WHO’s emergency response teams have provided critical support in managing outbreaks. They deliver essential supplies and ensure access to vaccines and treatments.

The organization’s coordinated efforts have saved countless lives by addressing emergencies. They manage the resurgence of polio in conflict-affected regions. They also contain outbreaks of cholera and Ebola. Collaboration with local and international partners has been vital in these efforts.

Tackling Tuberculosis (TB)

WHO’s Global Tuberculosis Programme has achieved significant milestones in 2024, underscoring its commitment to ending TB. Key highlights include:

21 new and updated TB policies and tools, including digital formats.
193 countries reported TB data for the Global TB Report, covering over 99% of the world’s population.
57 countries received specialized technical support.
Launch of the WHO TB Knowledge Sharing Platform with multilingual interfaces and operational handbooks.
20 national anti-TB drug resistance surveys and TB patient cost surveys in 16 countries.
Mobilization of over 90,000 young advocates through the 1+1 Initiative.

Spotlight on World TB Day 2024

Under the theme “Yes! We can end TB!”, WHO delivered a message of hope and action. The virtual WHO press conference featured key leaders, civil society, and advocates. They shared updates and launched a new investment case for TB screening and prevention. A high-level online talk show followed this event. It showcased the commitments of TB survivors. It also presented experiences of policymakers and global health leaders.

High-Level Events and Partnerships

77th World Health Assembly: A special side event emphasized transitioning high-level commitments into actionable strategies for TB elimination.
End TB Summit: National TB Programme managers, civil society, and experts discussed strategies for TB screening, preventive treatment, and financing.
Global TB Symposium: Over 1,000 participants explored breakthroughs and challenges in the fight against TB.

Advancing Digital Health Innovations

2024 has been a breakthrough year for digital health, with WHO championing the use of technology to bridge healthcare gaps. Digital tools, from telemedicine platforms to AI-driven diagnostics, have changed how health services are delivered. This is especially true in remote and underserved areas.

WHO’s Digital Health Strategy has emphasized interoperability, data security, and inclusivity. It ensures that digital advancements benefit all populations. No one is left behind.

Research and Innovation

Launch of the TB Vaccine Accelerator Council to fast-track vaccine development.
Release of updated guidelines for TB preventive treatments, including new drug regimens.
Publication of guidance on evidence generation for novel TB treatments to inform global recommendations.

Collaborating for a Healthier Future

The success of 2024’s initiatives underscores the importance of collaboration. WHO’s partnerships with governments, non-governmental organizations, the private sector, and local communities have been instrumental in driving sustainable health outcomes. These collaborations have strengthened health systems, promoted equity, and built resilience against future challenges.

Looking Ahead

As WHO reflects on the achievements of 2024, the focus remains on sustaining momentum and addressing emerging challenges. WHO remains committed to leaving no one behind in pursuing health equity. This commitment continues to guide WHO’s efforts as we step into 2025.

This year’s accomplishments highlight the power of collective action and the critical role of health in achieving sustainable development goals. By investing in health, we invest in the well-being and prosperity of communities worldwide.