Today, the World Health Organization (WHO) approved the General Programme of Work 2025-2028, which includes responding to the escalating threat to health posed by climate change as one of its six strategic objectives. These objectives reflect major areas of focus for this four-year period. Climate change presents a significant threat to global health, exacerbating vulnerabilities in health systems and widening health inequities.
We wholeheartedly embrace that GPW 14 has climate change and health as one of the WHO strategic priorities and acknowledge the profound impact of climate change on global health. Dr Maria Neira / Director, Department of Environment, Climate Change, and Health “We wholeheartedly embrace that GPW 14 has climate change and health as one of the WHO strategic priorities and acknowledge the profound impact of climate change on global health," said Dr Maria Neira, Director, Department of Environment, Climate Change, and Health at WHO. "This strategic focus will enable us to better protect vulnerable populations, enhance the resilience of health systems, and promote sustainable practices that benefit both people and the planet.
In response, WHO aims to lead a comprehensive response by the global health community to the climate crisis, driving the scale-up of evidence-based interventions to build climate-resilient health systems, and support health-promoting and environmentally sustainable practices within and outside of the health sector. This initiative ai.