The IFMSA, with a global community of 1.3 medical students, from 130 countries, has been working indefatigably to push for inclusive and active youth engagement within global health governance since 1969. Continuing this tireless effort, on Friday, the 10th of September 2021, the International Federation of Medical Students Association co-hosted the Young People and Young Professionals (YPYP) Forum, in collaboration with The International Pharmaceutical Students Federation (IPSF), European Medical Students Association (EMSA) and the World Health Organisation EURO Region (WHO EURO).
Three days prior to the WHO EURO 71st Regional Committee, this landmark event collated over 50 young health enthusiasts, with the aim of empowering their voices and implementing regional and international level change. With speakers ranging from Dr. Monti to the Dr. Kluge, Regional Director, a broad range of discussions were held, in preparation for the topics of RC71, where we look forward to the upcoming technical briefing on access to medicine, discussion on reinventing primary care and the immunisation agenda 2030.
The day kicked off with the opening remarks by the hosts from IFMSA, IPSF and EMSA, followed by an opening speech from WHO/Europe’s Regional Director, Dr Hans Kluge. During the day, a summary of the recommendations of the Pan-European Commission on Health and Sustainable Development was presented by Prof. Mario Monti and reactions from participants were collected via breakout sessions. The afternoon session was led by IFMSA and aimed to gather young people and young professionals’ input on the future of youth engagement in WHO/Europe’s work.
As an outcome of this forum, a Roadmap for Young People and Young Professionals Engagement in WHO/Europe is being published today, taking advantage of the momentum that the start of the 71st WHO RC provides. This roadmap contains 9 recommendations from youth to the WHO/Europe Regional Director to meaningfully engage with young people and young professionals in the future. This roadmap will be sent to Dr Hans Kluge himself, who attended the closing session of the Forum and provided very promising and positive feedback. Find the roadmap HERE.
For more information on IFMSA’s attendance at the WHO RC71, keep an eye out on IFMSA’s social media platforms! For further information, including partnership opportunities, please contact the IFMSA Regional Director for Europe at [email protected]
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