Prof. Ali Akbari Sari

Professor of Public Health
President of the National Institute of Health Research  in the Islamic Republic of Iran
Candidate for the post of WHO Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean

A Vision for Equity and Resilience

It is with great honor and commitment that I present my vision for the Eastern Mediterranean (EM) Regional Office of the WHO for the tenure of 2024-2028. The plan builds upon ongoing efforts in our region, supplemented by new programs, to address critical health needs. Aligned with UN and WHO master plans, including UHC and SDG initiatives, this plan maximizes impact by reinforcing implementation. Our diverse region faces myriad health challenges, from infectious diseases and non-communicable burdens to environmental risks and political instabilities. Complex solutions are needed. Some member states lack the capacity to confront these challenges effectively. Thus, empowering and aiding member states to prioritize and adopt efficient, affordable interventions for equitable progress is a central objective. My leadership is guided by inclusivity, collaboration, and empowerment, envisioning a shared regional vision of health and productivity. If granted the opportunity, I am committed to bolstering health systems’ resilience and sustainability, achieving comprehensive progress in promoting equity, health, and empowerment across the region. Active collaboration from all member states is vital for successful implementation, ensuring our collective dedication advances the program’s goals. Together, let’s embark on this journey with enthusiasm and determination, confident in the positive impact we can achieve on regional health and well-being.

Goals Overview

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Advancing Health Equity and Access

Strengthening primary healthcare, addressing social determinants, and enhancing affordability through initiatives like community health worker deployment and nutrition interventions.

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Strengthening Public Health Improvement

Promoting preventive healthcare, maternal and child health, and combating communicable and non-communicable diseases via health campaigns and antenatal care.

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Empowering Individuals and Communities

 Enhancing engagement, gender equality, and women’s empowerment with community health committees and policy advocacy.

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Strengthening Health Systems and Innovations

Focusing on technology-enabled healthcare delivery, health security, regional collaboration, and resilience.

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Collaboration and Knowledge Exchange

Creating virtual platforms, cross-country learning programs, and healthcare forums for professionals.

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Enhancing Health Information Systems

Upgrading data systems, governance frameworks, training, and international partnerships.

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Strengthening Pharmaceutical and Supply Chains

Optimizing supply chains, regional procurement, technology-based inventory systems, and local production.

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Enhancing Healthcare Systems' Responsiveness

Expert advisory committees, policy reviews, communication, and simulations for preparedness and adaptability.

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Fostering Innovation in Research and Development

 Establishing an innovation fund, hubs, forums, and partnerships with research institutions.

Key Elements of Our Plan

For the WHO EMRO Region

Detailed operational plans with timelines, responsibilities, and resource allocation.

Monitoring and evaluation using ``Theory of Change`` models.

Proactive risk assessments and mitigation strategies.

Enhanced collaboration and coordination among stakeholders.

Securing resources through financial sources and investments.

Active stakeholder participation for inclusivity and collaboration.

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