LIVE | Dr Tedros’ Statement at the Closing Session: Global Forum of the WHO Collaborating Centre

Why It Matters

By formalising co‑governance and expanding representation in low‑income regions, WHO strengthens its research network, ensuring policies are informed by diverse expertise and accelerating equitable global health impact.

Key Takeaways

• WHO aims to expand collaborating centers in low‑income regions
• New joint committee will co‑create governance with collaborating centers
• Two virtual meetings scheduled before April 2027 for all centers
• In‑person summit set for 7‑9 April 2027 in Geneva globally
• Commitment to reduce reporting burden and foster continuous partnerships

Summary

Dr Tedros delivered closing remarks at the inaugural Global Forum of WHO Collaborating Centres, summarizing three days of dialogue and announcing concrete steps to deepen the partnership between WHO and its network of research institutions.

He acknowledged persistent geographic inequities—most centres reside in high‑income nations—and pledged to prioritize the establishment of new centres in low‑ and middle‑income countries. He also promised to cut administrative burdens, shift from annual reporting to continuous collaboration, and launch a joint committee that will co‑create governance, milestones and deliverables with the centres.

Tedros highlighted the value of the poster session and the energy generated by networking, quoting Dr DJ Jordan’s reminder that collaborators are “part of the WHO family.” He outlined three commitments: a joint committee, two virtual meetings before April 2027, and an in‑person summit in Geneva from 7‑9 April 2027 to review progress.

The announced measures aim to embed collaborating centres more firmly in WHO’s global health architecture, enabling them to influence the 14th General Programme of Work, mobilize joint funding, and bring LMIC perspectives to policy design—potentially accelerating equitable health outcomes worldwide.