‘We can only move forward by working together’: first session of community of practice on a stronger global health architecture
The community of practice focusing on strengthening the global health architecture and national health systems held its first working session on 28 September 2023. Participating parties did the groundwork for further actions and discussed opportunities for targeted data exchange and access to knowledge for health professionals. They also explored initial ideas for sustainable investment in a multisectoral approach.
Robust and creative communities
The experts participating in this new community are committed to international coordination and multilateral cooperation. ‘We shouldn’t fear innovation, but embrace it,’ said Godelieve van Heteren, international expert in the field of planetary health. ‘Now is the time for robust and creative communities like this. To move forward, we have to work together.’
‘To implement the strategy properly, it’s essential for the partners to engage in joint, multidisciplinary research,’ added Janharmen Drost of the Amsterdam Institute for Global Health & Development.
Importance of networks in addressing health problems
During the working session, parties exchanged ideas on improving access to primary healthcare and to sexual and reproductive health and rights. Here too, they underscored the importance of cooperation between sectors and across borders. ‘We believe that worldwide health problems cannot be addressed in isolation,’ said Cordaid’s Rosana Lescrauwaet. ‘We’ve discovered the importance of networks and cooperation – for global health in particular.’
‘Now’s the time for robust and creative communities: open, with a fresh focus on what unites us as humans. To move forward, we have to work together.’
Godelieve van Heteren, senior international consultant on health and social system transformation: PBF, policy & governance|MBMD; member of the Planetary Health Hub