79th WHA Individual Statements
Agenda item 15.5 Draft strategy on the Economics of Health for All
Esteemed delegates and Honorable Chairperson,
We welcome the draft strategy on the economics of health for all, emphasizing that health is not a cost, but a long-term investment in resilient societies and sustainable development.
However, we remain concerned that economic policy and financing mechanisms still prioritize short-term fiscal goals over equitable access to health services and the social determinants of health. This disproportionally affects underserved populations and widens existing health inequities. Health must remain central as it is a fundamental human right.
As future health professionals, we witness how underfunded health systems undermine prevention, primary care, and trust in public institutions. As such, we urge Member States to strengthen equitable public financing for health, invest in the health workforce, and prioritize wellbeing in economic decision-making.
Thank you.
Contact person: Sie Meng Lee, Liaison Officer to the World Health Organization - lwho@ifmsa.org