World Health Summit Views

"Trust and positive affection are the central glue of societies, acting on all levels from couples to families, tribes, states, and to mankind. Trust cannot be dictated but has to be built and earned over and over again. And trust is fragile - literature overflows with examples of where it is intentionally destroyed and how disastrous the outcome can be. In the field of global health, it is of prime importance that we establish and maintain mechanisms to earn trust within and between the relevant stakeholder groups: academia, politics, private sector, and societies. The WHS aims to be one of these mechanisms. By the way, a little positive affection can help, too."

"Health issues now divide people. Lack of trust has become a risk factor for health. Countries need to invest in healthcare systems and public health institutions that inspire trust by serving all people and delivering a strong commitment to equity. Misinformation and disinformation on many health issues spreads through social media, as people have lost trust in official sources of information.  Measles is back in the world’s most developed countries as parents have lost trust in vaccines. Public health actions are questioned as people have lost trust in science. Ministers of health, public health institutions and professionals need to consider the establishment of trust as a key public health goal and a central component of pandemic preparedness."

"Building trust within public health agencies at national, regional and the global levels is critical when preparing for public health emergencies. At WHO’s Health Emergencies program we are working with national public health agencies across regions to strengthen their core capabilities, their governance and peer-to-peer learning. But none of this would lead to the impact we seek if we do not work together. Therefore, trust is a central piece of all of this work. As we learnt during the pandemic, communication that is based on scientific evidence, is more likely to be accepted and more likely to be acted on. Therefore, national institutions and their leaders can become trusted messengers of critical information.
But this is strengthened when there are similar voices at regional and global levels. No one institution can prepare and respond to the epidemic and pandemic threats that we face. We're stronger when we collaborate, learn from one another and work together. We all have a role to play in building trust across the global ecosystem and this will be at the heart of important conversations at the World Health Summit in October."

"Trust underpins the good functioning of societies and economies, and health systems are no exception. Resilient and high-performing health systems are not achievable without population trust. Without trust, institutional legitimacy for government action and compliance with policies are eroded. Take the COVID-19 pandemic, for example. Trust in institutions is associated with compliance with containment and mitigation measures, and with improved health crisis outcomes. Yet trust does not come by itself. Building trust requires a conscious policy focus, including action around core principles that populations expect should guide health policies, such as fairness, integrity and transparency. Trust also requires broad societal involvement to create people-centred health systems with effective population and patient involvement, choice, and participation."

"I believe building trust with communities is a critical challenge for the global health and medical community in this decade. The erosion of trust — both due to genuine inconsistencies in our approach to health and as a result of misinformation — has damaged the relationship between health and society. It is now up to us — health, medical, social science and allied professionals — to work with our community partners, policy makers, and social leaders to foster a relationship where not only trust but genuine concern, empathy and solidarity show us the way. I am delighted to see that the WHS 2024 and the WHS Academic Alliance have accepted this challenge as a global collaboration of multiple institutions, and are working and contributing towards this goal."

"In a time when our global community faces unprecedented health challenges, the necessity of trust cannot be overstated. Trust in our healthcare systems, in scientific research and most importantly in one another is the cornerstone upon which we can build a healthier future for all.

We have witnessed the extraordinary power of collective action. The COVID-19 pandemic reviewed not only the vulnerabilities in our health systems but also the profound strength that lies in our ability to come together. Yet it also exposed the critical truth: Without trust, our efforts are hampered, and our progress is stunted.

Building trust begins with transparency and accountability. It requires us to engage in open, honest conversations, to share knowledge freely and to ensure that our actions are guided by evidence and empathy. We must thrive for inclusivity ensuring that every voice is heard and every community is served.

Trust is also about delivering on promises. We must hold ourselves and our institutions accountable to the highest standards of integrity and efficacy.

This means not only advancing cutting-edge research and innovative treatments but also ensuring that these advancements are accessible to all regardless of geographic, economic or social barriers.

This is why I am very pleased that the theme of this year's World Health Summit challenges us to look beyond our individual rules and to see ourselves as part of the global ecosystem. Each of us, whether we are policymakers, healthcare providers, researchers or advocates has a part to play in fostering an environment where trust can flourish.

As we gather at the World Health Summit from
Oct. 13-15 in Berlin let us be reminded that building trust is not a passive endeavor. It demands active participation, continuous dialogue and unwavering commitment from all.

It calls for us to bridge gaps, break down silos and work collaboratively to achieve goals. I invite everyone to envision a world where trust is the foundation of our health systems, where misinformation is met with clarity, where fear is replaced with confidence, and where every person regardless of social or economic background can access the care they need and deserve.

Together we can build a healthier, more equitable world and together we can restore and strengthen the trust that binds us all."

"Multiple crises and inequitable access to COVID-19 vaccines have undermined decades of progress and the trust between richer and poorer regions. Germany and the EU, which benefit strongly from good partnerships around the globe, need to lead in rebuilding trust: by fostering “listen-learn-support partnerships” to strengthen health systems, showing up committed at multilateral health replenishments, and increasing efforts in getting innovations to the most vulnerable. Yet, given the debate on aid effectiveness, rebuilding trust with audiences in Europe is also crucial: High-impact programs such as Gavi and the Global Fund provide living proof of how resources enable tangible results. The WHS is a unique platform to facilitate these debates and build trust across borders and organizations."

"The widespread loss of faith in political leaders threatens global unity and undermines collective efforts to improve health worldwide. At a time when we face major health challenges – such as the impact of climate change, the consequences of conflict, and future pandemics – we need to reach across national and disciplinary boundaries with partnerships that are equitable and crucially based on mutual trust. The World Health Summit provides one such forum to come together and build these connections which are vital to our shared health."

"We are just coming out of a once-in-a-century pandemic and when you look across the world while some countries did well and other countries suffered. The bottom line is: the single biggest predictor of a nation’s success [in pandemic response] is its peoples’ trust in its health system, peoples’ trust in government and peoples’ trust in each other. This is why I am thrilled that the World Health Summit has put trust as a central theme of this year’s summit. Because if we are going to translate the incredible science of medicine and public health into bettering health, it’s going to have to focus on trust. And that’s why I’m attending this year’s World Health Summit to champion putting trust at the heart of healthcare."

"In a time of significant global health challenges, trust stands as the cornerstone of effective collaboration, innovation, and progress. This year, health leaders and key stakeholders will convene at the World Health Summit with a unified vision to enhance transparency, promote equity, and bolster resilience within health systems worldwide. By fostering robust partnerships and steadfastly upholding our commitments, we strive to achieve sustainable health outcomes for all. We seek to strengthen society’s support and invite everyone to contribute towards solutions for the pressing global health issues we face collectively, as the Director General of WHO very well highlighted recently."

“The World Health Summit convenes key stakeholders in the field, providing an optimal platform for addressing critical health issues and devising effective solutions. In light of the ongoing discourse on the interplay between environment and health, the theme of Building Trust for a Healthier World emerges as particularly pertinent. None of us are immune to the crisis of trust that hampers efforts to make genuine scientific knowledge comprehensible to the public. In a virtual world where misinformation frequently overshadows rigorous research, confidence in science is eroded. Rather than lamenting this reality, we must collaboratively develop strategies to restore trust. This endeavor is imperative and urgent, necessitating a profound and collective communication effort, which will undoubtedly be a focal point of this summit.”

"Elegant organization and planning of sustainable health services are critical for a more habitable world. Earning the trust of both service providers and recipients, and delivering health services within this trust framework, forms the foundation of a healthy society."

"In a world where epidemics and the health impacts of climate change transcend borders and boundaries, there has never been a greater need for trust in our multilateral institutions. The interactive dialogues set to take place at the World Health Summit will play a crucial role in helping foster this trust.

As an Asia-based platform, the Institute of Philanthropy plays a crucial role in promoting the betterment of societies everywhere. We proudly support the Summit's objective of building trust for a healthier world. Bringing together stakeholders from around the world breaks down barriers, promotes discussion and accelerates co-operation—vital to tackling the global health issues we are facing."

"Trust is the thread that keeps families, communities, nations and the world together. We live in times of accelerated trust erosion between countries, between governments and its citizens and between people and science and technology. Trust in science, democracy, and the rule of law, in the principles of mutual respect and solidarity is probably at its lowest levels, ever.

Science and technology have enabled interconnectedness, improvements in life expectancy, better health and well-being and overall prosperity around the world.

The trust gap, in all its dimensions, is threatening to reverse progress and puts the world in danger. We should unite our efforts, to protect the fabric that holds us together, for a safer, healthier, and peaceful world."

“Trust is the foundation upon which effective health systems, policies, and interventions are built. As the world is confronted with global challenges, including health, misinformation, and geopolitical tensions, recognizing ‘trust’ as a determinant of health, governance, and international cooperation is more essential than ever. The theme "Building Trust for a Healthier World" at the World Health Summit particularly stands out in the current geopolitical undercurrents where restoring confidence in health institutions, promoting scientific integrity, and ensuring equitable access to healthcare is vital for a healthier future for all. By highlighting the critical role of trust in governance and resilience of the global health landscape, the summit will promote solidarity among the global players to address the current poly-crisis situation.”

"Trust is the be-all and end-all of successful cooperation, whether at individual, institutional or system level and especially in international cooperation, as cultural standards differ. Trust must be built and earned, which can sometimes take many years, but can also be destroyed relatively quickly. A prerequisite for trust is open, honest and transparent communication on an equal footing, taking into account the different disciplinary, sectoral, cultural and social backgrounds. Trust must be resilient to external stressors and have an inbuilt natural buffer system. Trust is precious and should never be taken for granted, it must be nurtured throughout the collaboration. It is one of the pillars necessary for inter/transdisciplinary and cross-sector collaboration and must be anchored in a fair and equitable system."

“Building trust is crucial at this time as we face unprecedented global health challenges. The COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the need for international cooperation, transparent communication, and public confidence in health measures. Trust enhances vaccine acceptance, bridges health inequities, and strengthens health systems. It fosters collaboration among diverse stakeholders and drives innovation. At the World Health Summit, the emphasis on trust highlights its role in creating resilient, equitable, and effective global health responses, ensuring better outcomes for all.”

In order to keep the world safe from pandemics and to guarantee universal and health access for all we need to work together on solutions.  

Climate change is a global problem but does not affect everyone equally.  The most vulnerable people are the most affected by climate change and the health problems that come along with it. We really need to focus on reducing vulnerability in countries in order to make health challenges not worse. This year, with the presidency of G20, Brazil had prioritized the Climate Change subject, One Health, AMR and local and regional production on the G20 agenda since they are inextricably linked.  

G20 can be used as a potential mechanism to collectively make progress in achieving universal health coverage, and strengthen our national health systems, making them more resilient.  

International forums are very important for the Community, beyong the G20, the WHS remains a unique interactive and inclusive forum for the international global health community.  

"Trust is crucial more than ever as the world faces multiple intersecting crises, including health emergencies, climate change, and socio-economic upheavals. The IFRC builds trust through local action, leveraging the power of Red Cross and Red Crescent volunteers who live in the communities they serve, ensuring their needs and perspectives are prioritized. Ultimately, trust is the glue that holds our collective efforts together, allowing us to build a healthier, safer future for all.

This year's WHS theme, 'Building Trust for a Healthier World,' is a recognition of trust as a cornerstone for effective health and humanitarian interventions, and global cooperation. In a world where disinformation and skepticism prevail, rebuilding and reinforcing trust at all levels—from local communities to international partnerships—is imperative for a more resilient and healthier world."

"COVID-19 deepened the trust deficit in global institutions, exposing weaknesses in global health outcomes. "Building trust for a healthier world" involves leveraging the 4Cs of communities, communications, connections, and cooperation.

First, rebuild trust from the bottom-up at the community level. Local leaders and physicians must serve as anchors for trust-building.

Second, base health communications on science and evidence with compelling stories tailored to communities.

Third, strengthen connections between traditional health institutions, and share best practices in innovative formats like the WHS.

Fourth, deepen cooperation through WHO and networks of global health PPPs guided by principles of equity and a healthy dose of pragmatism."

"During the pandemic, public trust in science was compromised by several factors, including the rapid evolution of COVID-19, ambiguous messages from authorities, misinformation, and political polarization. This lack of trust in science has led to a growing erosion of social cohesion, hindering the social fabric’s ability to support individual and collective well-being and create an environment where diversity is valued and health inequalities are minimized. Re-building trust in science is essential for ensuring scientific progress and empowering the community to take control of their own health. Ethical commitment in scientific research and public health policies based on the best scientific evidence are both crucial to achieve this goal."

"Trust is the glue that holds societies together. It enables governments and the private sector to function and institutions to deliver the public goods we rely upon.  However, trust is being shattered around the world.

The consequences of this are deadly- conflict, corruption, autocracy and poor governance. The challenge before us at the WHS and beyond is to collaborate to rebuild trust and oppose the disinformation that is a clear and present danger to our lives."

"While the pharma industry is critical to improving and extending our lives, the very business model that makes it possible to invest in breakthrough innovations is also the very reason why it is (often) unliked and prone to controversies. Patents, prices, profits – the core elements of its business model – are associated with questions about affordability, availability, and equitable access to life-saving medicines. My long tenure as a key advocate for the industry, allows me to believe that It is possible to square the circle of patents, profits and patient care. Industry leaders, policymakers, academics and CSOs need to engage in dialogue at platforms such as the World Health Summit to find solutions and agree common ground for a new social contract."

"Trust is an abstract and emotional issue based on positive feelings, experience or interactions with a person, an institution, a government etc. It is not based on concrete data or proven results because, if the facts are undoubtedly correct, you do not need trust. This means, trust is the most important basis for any kind of intellectual and financial investments.

If there are unfair experiences distrust will be the consequence hindering many activities. This negative atmosphere may prevent projects, although under different conditions they could be helpful for many people.

As a globally acting, independent, the WHS has the chance and the duty to create trust between various even very different players. The WHS should serve as a trust-building, unbiassed moderator bringing together people from around the world."

"We are living in a very challenging time when the South of citizens is truly under threat, particularly those citizens that live in most vulnerable situations – be it  because of the tremendous geopolitical tensions that we are witnessing, the ongoing wars and conflicts or the rise of technologies like artificial intelligence that bring so much hope and promise but without the proper governance can leave millions of citizens behind. To address these challenges, and most importantly to find solutions, we need to bring together stakeholders as we will be doing at the World Health Summit. We need to build trust between stakeholders – from governments to private sector partners, from academia to community-based organisations such as patient advocates."

More than ever do we need to safeguard and build trust in the realm of global health. Trust is very much the platform on which strategies and initiatives must be based in order to reduce the glaring disparities in health between the rich North and LMICs in the Global South. To build trust, we must identify the preconditions for trust and act upon them. Symmetric partnerships, long-term engagements, equity, epistemic justice, and reciprocal innovation are key criteria for trust, as is the need to address the socioeconomic and political determinants of health. The WHS’s attention to trust is a right move in a world that is becoming more polarized by the day.