Fiji Backs Global Call for Resilient Health Systems at World Health Assembly

Fiji has reaffirmed its commitment to building stronger, more inclusive health systems and called for increased global support for Small Island Developing States (SIDS) during the 78th Session of the World Health Assembly (WHA) held at the United Nations Headquarters in Geneva.

Speaking during the Assembly this morning, Assistant Minister for Health and Medical Services, Honourable Penioni Ravunawa, praised the World Health Organization (WHO) for its leadership in coordinating the global health agenda, particularly amid a period of significant global challenges.

“Fiji strongly supports this year’s theme, ‘One World for Health.’ It reflects our collective responsibility to work in unity to build inclusive, equitable, and resilient health systems globally,” said Honourable Ravunawa.

He affirmed Fiji’s alignment with the statement delivered by the Cook Islands on behalf of Pacific Island Countries, stressing regional unity in advancing health priorities.

Ravunawa outlined several key national initiatives under Fiji’s National Development Plan aimed at strengthening healthcare delivery.

These include:

Enhancing primary health care to achieve universal health coverage;

Tackling non-communicable diseases, which are responsible for over 80% of premature deaths in Fiji;

Expanding access to mental health services;

Strengthening digital health systems and frontline workforce capacity;

Investing in climate-resilient infrastructure and emergency preparedness.

Despite these efforts, Ravunawa acknowledged the persistent challenges SIDS face, including limited financial and human resources, geographic isolation, and heightened climate vulnerability.

“To address these gaps, we call on our global partners to scale up financial and technical support for SIDS and to establish cooperation mechanisms tailored to the unique needs of our region—especially the Blue Continent, the Pacific Ocean,” he said.

He emphasized that primary health care must be the foundation of health security and resilience.

Honourable Ravunawa concluded his remarks by stating: “‘One World for Health’ is not just a theme—it is a call to action. Fiji stands ready to work in partnership with the global community to build a fairer, healthier, and more resilient future for all.”