MONGOLIA PARTICIPATES IN THE 78TH SESSION OF THE WORLD HEALTH ASSEMBLY

The 78th session of the World Health Assembly is taking place in Geneva from 19 to 27 May 2025 under the overarching theme “One World for Health.” The Mongolian delegation, headed by H.E. Ms. Davaasuren Gerelmaa, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Mongolia to the United Nations Office and other international organizations in Geneva, is participating in the session.

On 19 May, H.E. Ms. Davaasuren Gerelmaa, Ambassador and Permanent Representative delivered Mongolia’s national statement during the Assembly’s General Debate. In her address, she underscored the critical importance of global solidarity and coordinated action in confronting cross-border health challenges such as pandemics and climate change. She reaffirmed the Government of Mongolia’s unwavering commitment to protecting the health and well-being of every individual and highlighted the nation’s determination to strengthen its health system in alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals.

During its 78th session, the World Health Assembly is addressing a wide range of critical issues aimed at strengthening international health systems, enhancing pandemic preparedness and response capacities, advancing progress toward universal health coverage, and fostering coordinated efforts to mitigate the negative health impacts of climate change, armed conflict, and other global challenges. Member States are also engaging in strategic discussions on improving the financial sustainability of the World Health Organization, thereby ensuring its continued capacity to fulfill its mandate in an increasingly complex global health landscape.

In 2021, the Intergovernmental Negotiating Body (INB) was established with the mandate to draft and negotiate a convention, agreement, or other international instrument of the World Health Organization on pandemic prevention, preparedness, and response. Over the past three years, the INB has conducted intensive negotiations on the proposed pandemic accord. A significant milestone was reached on 20 May 2025, when, during the 78th World Health Assembly, the instrument was adopted. This historic decision marks a landmark achievement in the history of the Assembly and a critical step toward strengthening global health security and solidarity in the face of future pandemics.