Global health experts have converged as the World Health Organisation (WHO) holds its inaugural forum of collaborating centres to strengthen international health cooperation and coordinated responses to emerging global threats.
The forum brought together more than 800 institutions across over 80 countries in one of the world’s largest public health knowledge networks.
The meeting gathered scientists and public health leaders to assess emerging health risks in an increasingly fragmented global environment, while also identifying opportunities for stronger, more coordinated action.
In a statement, the WHO said participants highlighted urgent challenges confronting global health systems and explored ways to deepen collaboration across borders to improve outcomes.
The forum concluded on Thursday with renewed commitments to strengthen cooperation within the collaborating centres network, moving towards more integrated and flexible partnerships to address evolving health priorities.
WHO Director-General, Tedros Ghebreyesus, described the network as a “vast but under-utilised resource” for global health, noting that it connects leading institutions working to translate scientific evidence into practical solutions for countries and health systems.
He said the collaborating centres demonstrate the value of international cooperation in advancing science-based action to protect populations and strengthen health systems.
WHO Chief Scientist Sylvie Briand said the network represents a major global concentration of scientific expertise and public health leadership.
She stressed that amid growing global health challenges, trusted scientific collaboration is essential to saving lives and shaping a healthier future.
The World Health Organisation also announced plans to expand its network of collaborating centres to improve preparedness and response to emerging health threats.
A key initiative is the establishment of Collaborative Open Research Consortia (CORC), designed to connect leading research institutions and thousands of scientists worldwide.
The organisation confirmed that the next Global Forum will be held in 2027 as part of efforts to further strengthen global scientific collaboration in public health.
