A press briefing on the upcoming third World Health Forum is held at Tsinghua University in Beijing, Oct. 25, 2023. [Photo courtesy of Tsinghua University]
The third World Health
Forum (WHF) is set to take place from Nov. 4 to 5 at Tsinghua University in Beijing, according to a press briefing held on Wednesday. The forum will be hosted by Tsinghua University and co-organized by the Tsinghua Vanke School of Public Health (VSPH) and the Tsinghua Institute for a Healthy China .
Themed "Preparing the World for the Next Pandemic," this year's forum aims to summarize the experience of pandemic responses and innovate strategies to improve global public health systems. It is also expected to bolster basic and applied research on major infectious diseases, providing strong scientific and technological support to public health.
Margaret Chan, founding dean of the VSPH and chairperson of the WHF, noted at the briefing that in a post-epidemic era marked by challenges from climate change, accelerated urbanization, and growing global economic downside risks, all countries should reflect on previous experience, build consensus, and enhance readiness. This approach is a sure way to manage future potential pandemics decisively, fairly, and effectively.
Liang Wannian, executive vice dean of the VSPH and secretary-general of the WHF, provided an overview of the preparations for the forthcoming WHF. He said that the forum will encompass an opening ceremony, a general conference, three sub-forums, a youth forum, and a closing ceremony.
Specifically, the three sub-forums will focus on the topics of readiness for possible future pandemics, response to pandemics and social engagement, and technological empowerment coupled with global health governance.
During the Q&A session, speakers addressed questions regarding China's experience and insight into pandemic response and the training of interdisciplinary public health personnel.
Initiated by Tsinghua University in 2021, the WHF aims to bolster international cooperation and facilitate the exchange of expertise in tackling critical public health challenges.
