In response to the news that the US government is to withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO), HelpAge International stands in solidarity with the WHO and the vital role it plays in keeping the world safe, supporting those most at risk.
Cherian Mathews, Chief Executive of HelpAge International expressed his solidarity with WHO and endorsed the critical role they play in ensuring the world’s health.
“It is only through the work of the WHO that we can hope to see a world where everyone, everywhere can attain the highest level of health.
“We are proud to collaborate with the WHO as a non-state actor in official relations with them. Their role is critical to advancing the dignity, wellbeing and rights of older people everywhere, particularly in development and humanitarian settings. It is imperative that this decision does not undermine or compromise their ability to respond rapidly in humanitarian crises or to international outbreaks of disease.
“For older people, their leadership on the Decade of Healthy Ageing cannot be under-estimated as an initiative that benefits communities across the world. By engaging UN member states and wider stakeholders, it underscores HelpAge’s alignment with the mission of WHO in striving to ensure that all older people have the opportunity to enjoy health and wellbeing.
“The withdrawal of the United States from the WHO is a significant blow to the organisation’s work, and the delivery of the ambitious goals laide out in the Fourteenth Global Programme of Work. It undermines their work to ensure the health and safety of people and communities everywhere, including in the United States.
“The announcement that the United States will cease negotiations on the WHO Pandemic Agreement and the amendments to the International Health Regulations is a further blow to global health security.
“We stand with the WHO and global health stakeholders at all levels in calling for the United States to reconsider and engage in constructive dialogue with WHO and other Member States to maintain the partnership, for the benefit of the health and well-being of millions around the globe, including older people.”