78th World Health Assembly Held from 19 to 27 May 2025 in Geneva

Current Context: The 78th World Health Assembly (WHA78) took place from May 19 to 27, 2025, in Geneva, Switzerland, under the theme "One World for Health".

• This annual gathering, organized by the World Health Organization (WHO), serves as the highest decision-making body for global health policies.

Key Highlights:

• Leadership: Teodoro J. Herbosa (Philippines) elected President, Dr. Jaleela bint Alsayed Jawad Hasan (Bahrain) as Vice President.
• India’s Participation: PM Modi emphasized "One Earth, One Health" and Ayushman Bharat covering 580 million people.
• Pandemic Agreement: WHO adopted the first-ever global health preparedness agreement, but lacks enforcement mechanisms.
• Sustainable Financing: WHO’s funding increased by 20%, and a $210M pledging event supported future health strategies.
• India’s Health Reforms: Ayushman Bharat expanded to citizens above 70, medical colleges doubled, focus on disease elimination.

Question:

Q.1 Where was the 78th World Health Assembly (WHA78) held in May 2025?
a) New York, USA
b) Geneva, Switzerland
c) Paris, France
d) Rome, Italy

Answer: b) WHA78 took place in Geneva, which is the headquarters of the WHO and the usual venue for WHA meetings.