Belize Champions Health Equity and Taiwan’s Inclusion at World Health Assembly

Minister of Health and Wellness, Kevin Bernard, is representing the country at the 78th World Health Assembly (WHA) in Geneva, Switzerland, where global health leaders have convened to address urgent issues such as health emergency preparedness, equitable healthcare access, and international cooperation.

In his address to the Assembly, Minister Bernard said Belize remains steadfast in its commitment to the principle that health is a fundamental human right. “We continue to advance universal health coverage, strengthen our primary healthcare system, and improve health outcomes for our population,” he said.

Bernard highlighted Belize’s focus on equity, resilience, and community engagement, stressing the country’s determination to ensure that no one is left behind. He noted recent national progress, including the expansion of digital health, improvements in mental health services, and efforts to combat non-communicable diseases. The Minister also underscored the importance of preparedness, stating, “We are improving public health surveillance and emergency preparedness, recognising that in today’s interconnected world, no country is truly safe unless all are protected.”

A key part of Belize’s strategy, he said, is investing in the health workforce through training, retention, and supportive environments. Bernard also pointed to climate change as a critical health threat, noting that “climate resilience remains a key part of our strategy, particularly as we confront the health impacts of rising temperatures and extreme water events.”

Belize’s participation in the WHA also served as a platform to stress international solidarity and multilateral cooperation. “One World for Health must mean access to health, knowledge, innovation, and cooperation for all,” Bernard said, expressing Belize’s gratitude for its partnerships with PAHO, CARPHA, and the World Health Organization.

In a strong diplomatic gesture, Belize reiterated its support for Taiwan’s meaningful participation in global health governance. “We therefore support the meaningful participation of Taiwan in the World Health Assembly and all the WHO technical meetings,” Bernard stated. “Taiwan’s contributions to global health are significant, and its 23 million people deserve representation in shaping the global health agenda.”