Global Health Leaders Endorse Extended Digital Strategy to Tackle Future Challenges

 In a landmark decision shaping the future of global healthcare, Member States at the 78th World Health Assembly (WHA78) have endorsed the extension of the Global Strategy on Digital Health through 2027. In addition, the Assembly has mandated the World Health Organization (WHO) to begin crafting a new digital health strategy for the period 2028–2033.

The extension signals a growing recognition of digital technology’s pivotal role in building equitable, resilient, and people-centred health systems worldwide. It also aligns with broader international efforts such as the United Nations’ Pact for the Future and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

“This extension is not just about adding two more years—it’s about accelerating action,” said Dr. Alain Labrique, Director of WHO’s Department of Digital Health and Innovation. “From AI to telehealth, we have the tools; now we must ensure they reach and benefit everyone.”

Building on Momentum

Since its adoption at the 73rd World Health Assembly in 2020, the Global Strategy on Digital Health has catalyzed significant advancements across all six WHO regions. A total of 129 countries have developed national digital health strategies, laying the groundwork for more coordinated and effective use of technology in healthcare. Capacity-building efforts have also scaled up, with over 1,600 government officials from more than 100 nations receiving specialized training in digital health and artificial intelligence. These initiatives have equipped countries with the skills and frameworks needed to harness digital innovation in public health.

Major milestones include the launch of the Global Digital Health Certification Network, which has reached 1.8 billion people across 80 countries, and the release of WHO guidance on the ethical governance of AI in health. Additionally, 130 countries have completed digital health maturity assessments using the Global Digital Health Monitor, helping to track progress and identify areas for improvement. International collaboration has expanded as well, with 40 countries actively participating in the Global Digital Health Partnership and cross-border cooperation taking root in four WHO regions.

Strengthening Global Cooperation

The strategy’s implementation has fostered new alliances and platforms, including the WHO Innovation Hub, the Global Initiative on Digital Health, and partnerships with organizations like the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), the African Union, and the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO).

Digital health has also consistently featured on the global political agenda, having been included in the last five G20 presidencies.

Looking Ahead

The forthcoming 2028–2033 strategy aims to integrate digital technologies even more deeply into healthcare systems—particularly in support of universal health coverage, pandemic preparedness, and climate-resilient infrastructure.

“The next phase will focus on purposeful scaling and ethical integration,” WHO stated. “Digital health must not only be available but accessible and beneficial to all.”

As global health challenges grow increasingly complex, the extension and evolution of the digital health strategy underscore the collective resolve to leverage innovation in service of healthier, more inclusive societies.