The new Pacific Islands–WHO Multi-country Cooperation Strategy 2024–2029 marks a significant step in the long-standing partnership between the World Health Organization (WHO) and Pacific Island Countries and Areas (PICs). This strategy aims to achieve sustainable health improvements across the region, addressing key health challenges such as achieving universal health coverage (UHC), responding effectively to noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), and building resilience against emerging health threats like climate change.
The signatory states include American Samoa, Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, Cook Islands, Palau, Fiji, Pitcairn Islands, French Polynesia, Samoa, Guam, Solomon Islands, Kiribati, Tokelau, Marshall Islands, Tonga, Federated States of Micronesia, Tuvalu, Nauru, Vanuatu, New Caledonia, Niue, and Wallis and Futuna.
The MCCS outlines a comprehensive and tailored medium-term support plan for the Pacific, developed through consultations with 21 PICs. Key points include:
Health Challenges and Progress: PICs face diverse health challenges, including progress in health care such as improved immunization coverage, disease management, and health emergency response.
Strategic Priorities:
Country/Area Focused Plans: Detailed plans for each country, covering specific health needs and strategies.
The strategic agenda provides a roadmap for action across PICs and partners, focusing on:
This strategy aims to leverage expertise, resources, and financial support from various organizations and donors to achieve these goals.