The World Health Organization (WHO) has hosted its first-ever Global Forum of Collaborating Centres, bringing together representatives from over 800 institutions across more than 80 countries in a landmark effort to boost global scientific cooperation and public health response.
The forum, one of the largest gatherings of its kind, served as a platform for leading scientists and public health experts to examine emerging health threats in an increasingly fragmented world. Participants highlighted both the urgency of addressing these challenges and the opportunity to harness collective expertise to develop innovative solutions.
According to WHO, the Collaborating Centres network has been central to its mission since 1949, when the World Health Assembly endorsed a model focused on leveraging existing global expertise rather than building new institutions. Over the past 77 years, this network has grown into a vital resource, supporting research, innovation, and capacity building while strengthening global health standards.
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WHO Director-General, Tedros Ghebreyesus, described the network as a powerful but underutilised asset. He noted that it plays a critical role in translating scientific evidence into practical action, helping countries strengthen health systems and protect populations worldwide. He emphasised that the network reflects the importance of international cooperation in advancing science and improving health outcomes.
Chief Scientist, Sylvie Briand, also underscored the importance of collaboration, stating that the collective expertise within the network represents a formidable force for innovation and public health leadership. She stressed that trusted scientific partnerships are essential in addressing today’s global health challenges.
A key highlight of the forum was the introduction of the Collaborative Open Research Consortia (CORC), an initiative designed to accelerate the development of vaccines, diagnostics, and treatments for potential future pandemics, including the unknown “Disease X.”
Participants concluded the forum with renewed commitment to strengthening collaboration, especially amid declining global health funding. WHO announced that the next Global Forum will take place in 2027, continuing efforts to enhance coordinated global responses and safeguard public health worldwide.
