Migration : health and equity
Universal health coverage cannot be achieved without addressing the healthcare needs of the 281 million international migrants.
Migrants, often among the most vulnerable members of society, face significant challenges to their physical, mental, and social well-being due to their mobility. Factors such as irregular legal status, language barriers, financial constraints, and inadequate healthcare policies in host and transit countries hinder their access to essential healthcare. The alarming rates of morbidity and mortality among migrants represent a global health crisis that demands urgent attention from the international community.
Momentum: In 2023, the World Health Assembly extended the global action plan for refugee and migrant health until 2030, reaffirming WHO’s commitment to bridging gaps in healthcare access for refugees and migrants, regardless of their migratory status.
One year later, the Geneva Health Forum aims to assess the healthcare status of migrants and refugees while highlighting straightforward and inventive solutions developed by stakeholders in the field. Convening alongside the World Health Assembly, the GHF conference serves as a venue for academia, the private sector, political bodies, and civil society to share insights and experiences. Its primary goal is to amplify the voices of individuals dedicated to enhancing healthcare accessibility for migrants and engage in constructive dialogues with key stakeholders involved in supporting migrant populations.