About the Event

TThe COVID-19 crisis has thrown into sharp relief the need to better anticipate the next pandemic, and to harmonize preparedness mechanisms across the globe. Political leaders, as well as public authorities and international bodies, have struggled with good governance and transparency in addressing the global emergency, and the resulting loss of trust among citizens has complicated efficient responses even further.

At the same time, community-led responses have proven effective in many settings, facilitating more inclusive and sustainable approaches bolstered by a shared feeling of responsibility. The need to strengthen community engagement and inclusive processes with all of society at the table is clear at hand – not only while responding to an acute crisis, but crucially while defining future norms and commitments for international public health.

As negotiations towards a new international agreement on pandemic preparedness take shape - initiated by the European Union and several world leaders, and agreed to be taken forward by WHO’s 194 member states in a Special Session of the World Health Assembly on 1st December 2021 - the time is ripe to explore what it will take to break down divisions within the health community and strive for transparent, inclusive, and accountable mechanisms.

At this digital roundtable organized in close partnership between the European Health Forum Gastein and AIDS Healthcare Foundation Europe, key experts will reflect on what multi-sectorial commitments to and equitable governance structures for an international pandemic accord should look like, and how a broad consultation of civil society in the process can be ensured. We will also hear from young voices in (global) health and explore their hopes and demands for an equitable tomorrow. Join us to envision a transparent, inclusive, and accountable future for global health governance, and discuss the actions needed to get us there!

If you have any questions for the speakers, ask them during registration, during the event via the webinar Q&A function, via email to [email protected] - or tweet @GasteinForum with #futureofhealth.

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