The World Health Organisation has convened the historic first Global Forum of Collaborating Centres, bringing together representatives from more than 800 institutions designated as WHO collaborating centres across more than 80 countries.

The meeting, one of the world’s largest and most diverse public health networks, had scientists highlighting the health threats emerging in today’s fragmented world.

WHO, in a statement, said that at the meeting, the scientists highlighted challenges that create an urgent need for action and open new opportunities to mobilise efforts toward better health solutions.

The forum concluded on Thursday with a renewed sense of commitment across the broad network, moving beyond rigid scientific projects toward more dynamic and integrated partnerships.

“WHO’s network of collaborating centres is an immensely valuable but under-utilised resource for global health,” Tedros Ghebreyesus, the WHO director-general, said. It brings together the world’s leading institutions to translate evidence into action to support countries, strengthen health systems, and protect populations. Collaborating centres are a powerful demonstration of international cooperation, and what it means to stand with science.”

Sylvie Briand, WHO chief scientist, explained that the global network of WHO collaborating centres “represents an extraordinary concentration of scientific expertise and public health leadership”.

“Together, they form a powerful force for knowledge, innovation, and action,” said the chief scientist. “At a time of growing global health challenges, this spirit of trusted scientific collaboration is not only valuable – it is indispensable to protecting lives and shaping a healthier future for all.”

WHO is also expanding its global community of CCs to confront emerging health threats with greater strength and unity.

A key initiative is the creation of the CORC (Collaborative Open Research Consortia), networks of leading research institutions that bring together thousands of scientists worldwide.

WHO has announced the next Global Forum will be held in 2027 to further strengthen this historic collaborative platform.

(NAN)