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Dr Hanan Balkhy

WHO Regional Director

I believe in partnerships that create a healthier and safer world for all. Our children, youth, women and men deserve to live healthy and productive lives and get the health care they need wherever and whenever they need it. It’s our mandate to enable them to attain the highest possible level of health and well-being. I am determined to achieve that goal, with Member States and all partners, despite the daunting challenges. Together for a healthier future through access, action and equity.

– Dr Hanan Balkhy

Vision

For our people to be protected from preventable health risks and enabled to lead the healthiest lives possible.

Mission

To strengthen national capacities to provide better public health and clinical services for all our people, supported by a WHO that is more fit for purpose to serve them in our Region.

Strategic Operational Plan for the Eastern Mediterranean Region 2025–2028

A new strategic operational plan has been developed to guide WHO’s work in the Eastern Mediterranean Region under Dr Balkhy’s leadership. The plan proposes innovative solutions and new modalities for work including strengthening WHO country offices and making more use of mobile teams to better respond to the needs of countries at ground level. It also emphasizes the need to leverage science, data and technology, including artificial intelligence, to inform the design and delivery of policies, strategies and plans. There is a strong focus on increasing investment in health and leaving no one behind, while clear actions and monitoring mechanisms are specified for both WHO and Member States to ensure strong mutual accountability.

Access the regional strategic operational plan

Flagship initiatives

To strengthen support for Member States, WHO’s Regional Director has also launched three flagship initiatives. These address key bottlenecks and priorities to accelerate progress in implementing the strategic operational plan and achieving the health-related SDGs. Expanding equitable access to medical products, investing in a resilient and sustainable health workforce, and accelerating public health action on substance use are among the key priorities in the Region.