Global strategy and plan of action on public health, innovation and intellectual property

Statement of the:
International Federation of Medical Students’ Associations (IFMSA)
and the World Medical Association (WMA) and
the International Pediatric Association
74th World Health Assembly
Item 13.4 Global strategy and plan of action on public health, innovation and intellectual property, 13.6
Substandard and falsified medical products and 13.7 Standardization of medical devices nomenclature
Honorable Chairperson, distinguished delegates,
The implications of the COVID-19 pandemic have disproportionately affected vulnerable populations and
highlighted global inequalities in the provision of health services and the distribution of essential medicines.
However, the scarcity and unequal availability of health technologies predate the pandemic and pose a
major challenge to global health.
The International Federation of Medical Students’ Associations, the World Medical Association, and the
International Pediatric Association strongly believe that access to essential medicines and health
technologies represents the enforcement of the right to health and the idea of global solidarity and equity.
Delivering on all essential medicines and products, including those on the WHO model lists of essential
medicines and of essential medicines for children, are critically needed to achieve global goals. Furthermore,
strengthening the local production of medicines and technologies is crucial to achieving universal health
coverage and sustainable development in all countries.
We support WHO’s leadership in implementing equitable access to health innovation and thus acknowledge
the efforts put into the global strategy and plan of action on public health innovation and intellectual
property.
We, therefore, call upon the WHO to support all Member States in the development and implementation of
evidence-based and effective health technologies, ensuring their equitable distribution between and within
countries. We urge the WHO to support Member States in their efforts to increase population health literacy
through modern technologies.
Moreover, we call upon Member States to guarantee access to innovations in healthcare to all members of
society. Progress should benefit everyone, particularly those in need.
Lastly, as future health leaders and “digital natives” with a unique and valuable perspective today, we urge
Member States to engage young people in education, development, and implementation of health
innovations, thus contributing towards building resilient health systems whilst ensuring sustainable human
development.
Thank you.