Published on: June 3, 2025 12:41 pm
The World Health Organization (WHO) continues to play a pivotal role in shaping global health policies and initiatives. As of June 2025, several key developments have emerged, reflecting WHO’s commitment to enhancing health systems worldwide.
🧬 WHO Latest News on Traditional Medicine Strategy 2025–2034
During the 78th World Health Assembly held in May 2025, WHO member states adopted the Global Traditional Medicine Strategy 2025–2034. This strategy aims to integrate traditional, complementary, and integrative medicine (TCIM) into national health systems, emphasizing the importance of evidence-based practices, safety, and quality. The strategy also highlights the need to protect indigenous knowledge and promote environmental sustainability in the context of TCIM. who.int
💊 New WHO Guidelines to Improve Access to Controlled Medicines
In May 2025, WHO unveiled new guidelines to improve global access to controlled medicines. These guidelines provide a comprehensive framework for countries to develop balanced national policies that ensure safe, equitable, and affordable access to essential controlled medicines. The recommendations focus on strengthening procurement systems, enabling local production, and promoting training for healthcare professionals. The aim is to address the disparities in access to controlled medicines, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. who.int
🌐 WHO Launches Health Partnership with Papua New Guinea
On June 3, 2025, WHO announced a new health partnership with the Australian Government and Papua New Guinea (PNG). The DFAT–WHO–NDoH Partnership 2025–2028, valued at AUD 15 million, focuses on strengthening primary healthcare, expanding the health workforce, improving access to essential medicines, and supporting maternal and child health services in PNG. This initiative aligns with PNG’s National Health Plan 2021–2030 and WHO’s Country Cooperation Strategy 2024–2028. who.int
🧠 WHO Addresses Social Connection as a Public Health Priority
In a historic move, the World Health Assembly recognized social connection as a public health priority. The resolution urges member states to develop and implement evidence-based policies and programs to promote positive social connections, aiming to reduce the health risks associated with social isolation and loneliness. WHO also launched the “Knot Alone” campaign to raise awareness about the importance of social connections for mental and physical health. who.int+1who.int+1
🧪 WHO Hosts Health Talks on Food Safety
From June 2 to 4, 2025, WHO hosted the Health Talks on Food Safety to mark World Food Safety Day. The series of webinars focused on the theme “Food safety: science in action,” highlighting how scientific research drives progress in food safety. Discussions covered topics such as foodborne disease burden estimation, surveillance, laboratory systems, and global collaboration. The event featured leading voices from WHO and partner institutions, emphasizing the importance of evidence-based approaches in ensuring food safety. who.int+1who.int+1
🏥 WHO Latest News about COVID-19 Risk Assessment and Variants
As of June 2025, WHO continues to monitor and manage the global COVID-19 situation. The organization advises member states to maintain a risk-based, integrated approach to managing COVID-19, embedded within broader disease prevention and control programs. WHO emphasizes the importance of sustained investment in core public health capabilities, including surveillance, community protection, and clinical care, to mitigate the ongoing health and socioeconomic impacts of the pandemic. who.int
🏛️ WHO Director-General’s Remarks at the Ibrahim Governance Weekend
On June 1, 2025, WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus delivered opening remarks at the Ibrahim Governance Weekend. He highlighted the challenges faced by African countries due to aid reductions and emphasized the need for sustainable self-reliance in health financing. Dr. Tedros called for innovative approaches to health financing and underscored WHO’s support for countries transitioning towards self-reliant health systems. who.int+2who.int+2who.int+2
📅 Upcoming WHO Events
- World Food Safety Day – June 7, 2025: WHO will continue its efforts to raise awareness about the importance of food safety.
- World Blood Donor Day – June 14, 2025: An annual event to thank blood donors and raise awareness about the need for safe blood.
- European Healthy Cities Conference – June 17–19, 2025: A conference focusing on building resilient, sustainable, and inclusive cities. who.int
Conclusion
WHO’s recent initiatives reflect a comprehensive approach to strengthening global health systems. From integrating traditional medicine into health systems to addressing social connection as a public health priority, WHO continues to lead efforts in promoting health and well-being worldwide. As these developments unfold, they underscore the importance of collaboration, innovation, and equity in achieving global health goals.who.int
