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As we gather for the Seventy-second session of the WHO Regional Committee for the Eastern Mediterranean, we are pleased to welcome our partners from the Region and beyond.
Partner Hub @ RC72 is a virtual hub that helps you connect, share insights and explore opportunities for future collaborations to advance health and well-being.
We invite you to get to know each other, exchange ideas and build partnerships that will strengthen our collective impact.
Let’s work together to shape a healthier future for the Eastern Mediterranean Region.
Arab Hospitals Federation (AHF), founded in 1999, is an independent, non-political and nonprofit organization representing public and private health care providers across the Arab world. AHF aims to elevate the quality of health care services by fostering collaboration, innovation and excellence among public and private health care institutions and health-related stakeholders.
AHF works across multiple domains, including maternal and child health, noncommunicable diseases, mental health, emergency response, health systems, digital health and areas such as hospital resilience and sustainability and health facility accreditation.
AHF actively engages with the Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean on digital health transformation, quality standards, climate health integration and sustainable health care systems and participates in WHO-led initiatives on health equity, women’s health and emergency preparedness.
For more information visit the AHF websiteThe World Federation of Hemophilia (WFH) works to provide access to care and treatment for people with inherited bleeding disorders around the world. Under the overarching vision Treatment for All, WFH focuses on maternal and child health, emergency response and health systems strengthening, alongside humanitarian aid, training and advocacy.
WFH has maintained official relations with WHO since 1969. It has contributed to clinical guidelines and successfully advocated for the inclusion of safer haemophilia therapies in the WHO Essential Medicines List. Its global partnerships span UN agencies, pharmaceutical foundations, national organizations and community-led initiatives.
In 2025, WFH led a major update to the WHO’s Essential Medicines List, adding new treatments and removing outdated ones, marking a significant step towards more equitable care.
For more information visit the WFH websiteThe World Hepatitis Alliance (WHA) is an international network of over 400 organizations working to eliminate viral hepatitis by empowering communities. With a vision of a world free from hepatitis, WHA focuses on maternal and child health, emergency response and health systems strengthening, alongside advocacy, stigma reduction and liver cancer prevention.
In collaboration with WHO, WHA co-develops global strategies, hosts the World Hepatitis Summit and promotes hepatitis integration into universal health coverage. Its partners include UN agencies, NGOs, academic institutions and global coalitions.
At the 78th World Health Assembly (2025), WHA co-launched a White Paper on liver cancer and chronic hepatitis, advancing policy recommendations for early diagnosis, vaccination and treatment access.
The World Heart Federation (WHF) is the leading global organization dedicated to cardiovascular health. Its mission is to ensure every human being has access to the information, care and treatment they need to keep their heart healthy, regardless of race, nationality, gender, age, education or income.
WHF focuses on maternal and child health, emergency response, health systems strengthening and digital health. It also emphasizes climate and environmental health, policy advocacy and equitable access to care.
WHF collaborates on the WHO Guidelines for Rheumatic Fever and Rheumatic Heart Disease, promotes the WHO HEARTS technical package and NCD Best Buys, and advocates for WHO Air Quality Guidelines (2021).
At the 78th World Health Assembly (2025), WHF led efforts to treat 500 million people with hypertension by 2030, supported fiscal policies on harmful products and promoted integration of rheumatic heart disease into maternal health strategies.
Gates Foundation works to create a world where everyone can live a healthy, productive life. Guided by the belief that all lives have equal value, it focuses on eliminating preventable diseases, poverty and inequality through innovation and collaboration.
Its health priorities include maternal and child health, infectious disease control (HIV, TB, malaria, polio), vaccine development, nutrition, digital health and antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
As one of WHO’s largest non-governmental contributors, the Foundation supports polio eradication, malaria control, maternal health and data-driven disease modeling in Africa. In September 2025, it partnered with WHO and Unitaid to launch a global initiative to make Lenacapavir – a twice-yearly HIV prevention drug – available for US$ 40 a year in 100+ countries by 2027, aiming to prevent 20% of new infections in high-burden areas.
United States Pharmacopeia (USP) is a global nonprofit organization dedicated to improving health through science-based standards that ensure the quality, safety and benefit of medicines and foods. USP envisions a world where everyone has access to high-quality medical products, supported by strong regulatory systems and collaborative partnerships.
USP’s work spans noncommunicable diseases, emergency response, digital health and health systems strengthening, with specialized focus on pharmaceutical quality, biologics, food safety, AMR and vaccine diagnostics. USP has strong relations with WHO and supports medicine supply chain resilience, WHO prequalification, regulatory training and AMR strategy.
In 2022, USP renewed its collaboration with WHO, expanding support for national laboratories, improving access to quality-assured medicines in low- and middle-income countries and enhancing manufacturing capacity to combat global health threats.
The Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) unites and supports the global cancer community to reduce the cancer burden and promote equity in prevention, treatment and care. UICC envisions a world where cancer services are accessible to all through strengthened, people-centered health systems.
Its work spans noncommunicable diseases, maternal and child health, mental health, emergency response and digital health, with a focus on cancer prevention, early detection, palliative care and data systems.
UICC co-hosts the World Cancer Congress and Leaders’ Summit, supports WHO’s global initiatives on breast, cervical and childhood cancer, and advocates for essential cancer medicines.
In 2024, UICC renewed its collaboration with WHO through the Collaborating Centre for Global Cancer Control, advancing national cancer plans, surveillance and research capacity worldwide.
Rotary International is a global network of over 1.2 million members committed to creating lasting change through service, integrity and fellowship. Its mission is to advance peace and understanding; its vision a world where people take action to improve lives locally and globally.
Rotary’s health focus includes maternal and child health, noncommunicable diseases, mental health, emergency response and health systems strengthening. It also leads efforts in polio eradication, WASH, disease prevention, peacebuilding and environmental health.
As a founding partner of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative, Rotary collaborates with WHO on polio elimination, maternal health and emergency response. In June 2025, WHO’s Director-General reaffirmed Rotary’s role in global health, celebrating its leadership in freeing Africa from wild poliovirus and renewing commitment to finish the “last mile” of eradication.
The NCD Alliance (NCDA) is a global civil society network driving action to prevent and manage noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), ensuring no one is left behind. Its mission is to unite communities and promote health equity; its vision a world free from preventable suffering and death caused by NCDs.
NCDA’s work spans maternal and child health, mental health, emergency response and health systems strengthening, with an added focus on universal health coverage, sustainable financing, climate and health and accountability. Together with WHO, NCDA co-hosts UN High-Level Meetings, co-sponsors the Global Coordination Mechanism on NCDs and advocates for SDG Target 3.4.
In September 2025, NCDA and WHO co-hosted the 4th Multistakeholder Gathering, advancing inclusive policies to elevate mental health within the global NCD response.
The Islamic Advisory Group (IAG) is a faith-based partnership leveraging Islamic leadership to promote public health and counter misinformation in Muslim communities. Its goals include supporting global health initiatives through religious engagement, with a vision of fostering solidarity and access to health for all.
IAG focuses on maternal and child health, NCDs, emergency response and vaccine advocacy. Established in 2013 by Al Azhar Al Sharif, International Islamic Fiqh Academy (IIFA), the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation and the Islamic Development Bank, with WHO and UNICEF support, IAG has played a key role in polio eradication in Pakistan, Afghanistan and Somalia.
In December 2022, IAG held its ninth annual meeting in Jeddah, reaffirming its commitment to immunization, expanding to the Sahel region and strengthening collaboration with religious leaders to promote health education and counter vaccine hesitancy.
For more information visit the Islamic Advisory Group website
The Iodine Global Network (IGN) is a global nonprofit that aims to eliminate brain damage due to iodine deficiency.
IGN’s work spans maternal and child health, NCDs, emergency response and health systems strengthening, with a focus on universal salt iodization, micronutrient nutrition and food fortification policy. In collaboration with WHO, IGN contributes to data systems, technical guidance and joint advocacy aligned with global nutrition targets.
In June 2024, IGN and WHO released a joint report urging mandatory iodization in processed foods and plant-based dairy, raising awareness of iodine needs during pregnancy and reinforcing policy flexibility for public health nutrition.
International Hospital Federation (IHF) is a global nonprofit that supports hospital and health care leaders through knowledge exchange, leadership development and strategic collaboration.
Its mission is to improve health service delivery. In pursuit of its vision of healthy communities served by well-managed hospitals, IHF’s work spans maternal and child health, NCDs, mental health, emergency response and digital health, with a focus on hospital governance, climate-resilient care and patient safety.
In official relations with WHO since 1948, IHF collaborates on universal health coverage, maternal health, digital health strategy and climate-health initiatives.
In January 2024, IHF and the WHO Pan American Health Organization signed a technical cooperation agreement to transform hospital management in Latin America and the Caribbean, advancing leadership competencies, sustainable health care and integrated care systems.
With 1.3 million medical students from 139 national member organizations in 130 countries around the globe, the International Federation of Medical Students’ Associations (IFMSA) is among the world’s largest student-led organizations.
IFMSA empowers future health professionals through training, exchanges and global collaboration. Its work spans maternal and child health, NCDs, mental health, emergency response and digital health, with a focus on sexual and reproductive rights, climate, ethics and humanitarian action.
IFMSA has a long-standing partnership with WHO – official relations started in 1969 – and has co-organized youth events and contributed to digital health and climate strategies.
IFMSA is a regular participant in global health forums. In May 2025, IFMSA and WHO co-hosted the 13th Youth Pre-World Health Assembly, advancing youth-led solutions for digital health, equity and governance.
Hamdard Foundation Pakistan (HFP) is a philanthropic organization committed to health care, education and humanitarian service. In partnership with WHO since 1981, HFP contributes to traditional medicine initiatives, celebrates World Health Day annually and supports maternal health advocacy.
Envisioning a society enriched by science, culture and compassion, HFP’s work spans maternal and child health, NCDs, mental health, emergency response and health systems strengthening, with a strong focus on traditional medicine, mobile dispensaries and health education.
In April 2025, HFP and WHO co-hosted the 33rd International Children’s Health Conference, raising awareness on newborn health and reinforcing HFP’s commitment to WHO’s maternal and child health agenda.
The Eastern Mediterranean Public Health Network (EMPHNET) is committed to strengthening public health systems across the Eastern Mediterranean Region. Its mission is to build workforce capacity, promote evidence-based decision-making and support countries in addressing health challenges. EMPHNET envisions better health for all through collaborative, sustainable and context-specific solutions.
Its work spans maternal and child health, NCDs, mental health, emergency response and digital health, with a strong focus on field epidemiology, One Health, immunization and food safety.
EMPHNET partners with WHO on food safety, health workforce development and emergency preparedness. In October 2024, EMPHNET hosted the Fourth Steering Committee Meeting for WHO’s Workforce Capacity Roadmap, strengthening national capacity for essential public health functions and engaging early adopter countries in policy and education reforms.
Drugs for Neglected Diseases Initiative (DNDi) is a nonprofit research organization that develops affordable, effective treatments for neglected diseases. DNDi bridges research and development gaps through global partnerships, aiming to save lives and improve health for underserved populations.
DNDi’s work spans maternal and child health, NCDs, emergency response and health systems strengthening, with a focus on neglected tropical diseases, paediatric HIV, hepatitis C and pandemic preparedness.
In close collaboration with WHO, DNDi contributes to the Neglected Tropical Diseases Roadmap, the universal health coverage agenda and co-leads initiatives like the Global Antibiotic Research & Development Partnership (GARDP).
Committed to inclusive, patient-centered research and development, in February 2025 DNDi advocated at WHO’s Executive Board for skin NTDs, maternal health and equitable access to diagnostics and oral treatments.
The Saudi Fund for Development (SFD) is a government institution dedicated to advancing sustainable economic development. SFD seeks to be a comprehensive strategic partner that advances the sustainable economic development of the world’s least developed countries by leveraging Saudi Arabia’s resources to provide financial, technical and human support to meet the needs of its partners.
SFD’s health-related work includes maternal and child health, NCDs, emergency response and health systems strengthening, with a focus on hospital construction, medical equipment and epidemic preparedness.
In collaboration with WHO and other UN agencies, SFD co-finances health infrastructure and, in alignment with WHO’s emergency response framework, supports fragile settings.
In September 2025, SFD partnered with the Qatar Fund for Development (QFFD) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to launch a US$ 89 million initiative in the Syrian Arab Republic, supporting health worker salaries, essential services and WHO-led recovery efforts.
The Gulf Health Council (GHC) is a regional organization that advances health cooperation among Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Member States. It works to strengthen the health sector through proactive initiatives and coordinated responses to regional and global health challenges.
Building sustainable health for all GCC citizens through impactful collaboration, GHC’s work spans maternal and child health, NCDs, mental health, emergency response and digital health, with a focus on unified pharmaceutical policy, disease prevention and public health preparedness.
In partnership with WHO, GHC conducts joint studies on NCD investment, co-hosts meetings of experts and supports leadership programmes and emergency preparedness. In September 2023, GHC and WHO launched a series of joint Gulf health studies that aim to improve health care services and reduce the regional burden of NCDs.
The Centre for Environment and Development for the Arab Region and Europe (CEDARE) is an intergovernmental organization that drives sustainable development through environmental governance and climate resilience. CEDARE supports health and well-being by addressing NCDs, mental health, emergency response and digital health, integrating climate change, water and food security and gender inclusion.
In partnership with WHO, CEDARE contributes to Sustainable Development Goal 6 monitoring, regional policy dialogues and technical cooperation on water governance and environmental health. In February 2025, CEDARE joined the 9th UN-Water IMI-SDG6 meeting in Geneva, strengthening regional indicators and promoting cross-sectoral collaboration.
With partners like the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the European Commission, CEDARE champions data-driven, inclusive solutions for sustainable health systems.
The Arab Women Organization (AWO) is an intergovernmental entity affiliated with the League of Arab States, dedicated to empowering Arab women and promoting gender equality.
AWO builds women’s capacities, promoting progress and sustainable development while emphasizing solidarity and full participation in all spheres of life.
AWO’s health work focuses on maternal and child health, noncommunicable diseases, mental health and gender-responsive policies, especially in conflict and displacement settings. AWO collaborates with WHO on initiatives promoting women’s health, co-hosting events and advocating for gender mainstreaming in health systems.
The Women For Well initiative which AWO launched with WHO in 2025 focuses on chronic disease prevention and maternal health. Strategic partners include UN Women, the Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) and national women’s councils.
The Novartis Foundation focuses on some of the world’s most pressing health challenges – cardiovascular disease and health inequity. It takes a population health approach, widening the lens from a narrow focus on health care delivery to a panoramic vision of improving health in the population at large. This population health approach brings together disconnected data to create insights that help authorities understand the root causes of unequal health outcomes and find the best ways and best partners to remediate them, helping to empower governments to re-engineer reactive care systems into proactive, predictive and preventive health systems.
Novartis Foundation collaborates with WHO on neglected tropical diseases (NTDs), malaria elimination and global health summits, aligning with WHO’s Neglected Tropical Diseases Roadmap 2021–2030. In June 2022, Novartis Foundation pledged US$ 250 million to support WHO efforts to eliminate NTDs and malaria. Strategic partners include Microsoft, PATH, DNDi and leading academic institutions.
