Honorable Chairperson, Distinguished Delegates,

The World Medical Association welcomes the WHO's leadership in addressing the global health workforce crisis. However, the projected shortage of 11.1 million health professionals by 2030 continues to threaten global health security and access to healthcare for all.

We call on Member States to increase investment and accelerate progress in health workforce development, including through education, regulation, disaggregated data collection, and promotion of safe and inclusive working environments. Ongoing regional disparities in health workforce shortages highlight the need for multilateral cooperation to monitor international migration and recruitment, including during emergencies.

The health and care workforce is the backbone of resilient health systems. Collective action is a moral imperative to safeguard global health and achieve sustainable development.

Thank you.