Hanan Balkhi: The Eastern Mediterranean is entering a new phase of systematic health work and sustainable partnerships
Dr. Hanan Hassan Balkhi, Regional Director of the World Health Organization for the Eastern Mediterranean, delivered the opening speech at the seventy-second session of the Regional Committee, which began today, October 15, 2025, in the presence of health ministers and heads of delegations from member states.
Balkhi confirmed that the organization’s regional office is witnessing a radical shift in the method of work over the months. The past eighteen years have included restructuring priorities and launching a new strategic implementation plan based on three main initiatives currently under implementation. She explained that the region responded to 16 classified emergencies and 56 disease outbreaks, with the mobilization of more than $1.4 billion in voluntary contributions, the reactivation of the regional health alliance, and the establishment of 15 new partnerships that enhance response capabilities and mutual support between countries.
The Regional Director added that work is underway to form a regional health financing team that includes experts from member states, with the aim of developing mechanisms. Innovative and sustainable financing ensures the continuity of health systems in the face of increasing challenges.
Balkhi indicated that the current year witnessed a comprehensive review of the way the Regional Committee works, so that its program reflects the priorities of member states and enhances the principle of shared leadership. She stressed that transparency, accountability, and participation represent key pillars of her leadership approach within the organization.
She explained that the current session’s sessions will review the annual report of the Regional Director and the reports of the subcommittees, in addition to evaluating progress in eradicating polio and responding to health emergencies, and discussing technical papers on unvaccinated children, and the recovery of health systems in fragile environments, Palliative care, biosafety and laboratory security, as well as a new implementation plan on climate change and health, are all proposals submitted by Member States.
The meetings also address governance issues and the agenda of the Organization’s Executive Council, in addition to honoring pioneers from the Eastern Mediterranean Region who have contributed outstanding achievements in cancer care and syndrome research. Dawn.
At the conclusion of her speech, Dr. Hanan Balkhi expressed her appreciation to the health ministers and delegation leaders for their efforts in supporting regional cooperation, hoping that the current session would yield practical visions that enhance confidence-building and push the health process in the region towards greater coordination. And sustainability.
