Malta’s Health Minister Appointed President of World Health Assembly

Health Minister Chris Fearne has been appointed President of the World Health Assembly, WBA He will assume the role for one year while continuing his work in the Maltese government as Deputy Prime Minister and Health Minister

The WHA is the World Health Organisation (WHO) governing body bringing together member states worldwide to discuss global health policies and priorities. He is joining the One Health Global Leaders Group board, an international body that advises international health organisations such as the World Health Organisation, the World Organisation for Animal Health, and the UB Food and Agriculture Organisation

Fearne’s appointment as the President of the 46th edition of the WHA is a significant recognition of his expertise and leadership in healthcare Despite taking on this international role, Fearne will continue to fulfil his duties within the government, ensuring the continuity of his work in improving the health and well-being of the Maltese population

The role of the President of the WHA carries a one-year term It involves overseeing the annual assembly where WHO delegates discuss and determine the priorities and policies for the organisation’s work in the upcoming year This assembly serves as the policy-making body of the WHO, responsible for crucial decisions such as the appointment of the Director-General, financial policies, and budget approval

Fearne’s contributions, reforms in healthcare

Fearne’s appointment reflects his capabilities and highlights his positive relationship with the European Regional Committee, particularly with Dr Hans Kluge, during the challenging COVID-19 pandemic Malta’s effective pandemic management was commended by Kluge, who often regarded it as a model for other countries to follow

Apart from his international recognition, Fearne has been instrumental in driving progressive reforms within Malta’s healthcare system He has played a vital role in making in-vitro fertilisation more accessible to women by introducing reforms that allow for embryo freezing and preimplantation genetic testing

He is also leading the efforts to reform Malta’s anti-abortion law, proposing amendments permitting abortions in cases where a woman’s life or health is at risk

In a statement, the Health Ministry said the group, comprised of 26 prime ministers, ministers and health professionals, would focus efforts on how countries can protect their population from antimicrobial resistance, which, left unchecked, could lead to the spread of diseases resistant to existing treatment

Speaking of the appointment, Minister Fearne said he felt honoured that Malta will have a voice within such a prestigious group that seeks to address the health challenges of the world’s population while also influencing global healthcare politics

He thanked the international scientific community for the trust placed in him.