From 10 to 12 September 2025, the partners of the Joint Action on the EU Global Health Strategy (JA GHI) gathered in Copenhagen and online for their second General Assembly. The meeting marked the close of Year 2 and set the direction for the work ahead, as partners, experts, and representatives from 24 countries and 44 institutions reflected on what has been achieved and what lies before us.
The Assembly opened with a reminder of the significance of this moment.
In his address, Dr Jérôme Weinbach, Coordinator of JA GHI, noted:
“We gather today at a time of profound uncertainty for global health… Multilateralism itself is being questioned, just when we need it most. And yet – there are reasons for hope.”
That sense of cautious optimism ran through the discussions.
In just two years, JA GHI has grown into a dynamic platform where countries and institutions meet, share, and align their priorities in support of the EU Global Health Strategy.
Together, they have achieved important milestones:
- the first EU-wide mapping of global health measures and funding across 21 countries;
- a sustainability roadmap to ensure that today’s efforts endure tomorrow;
- new dialogues with partners beyond the EU, capturing perspectives on Europe’s added value; and
- a strong foundation of evidence-based surveys and evaluations to guide decisions and accountability.
“This Assembly is not only about reviewing achievements – it is about turning them into lasting impact,” Dr Weinbach said.
A Message of Unity from the European Commission
A highlight of the gathering was the participation of Sandra Gallina, Deputy Director-General of DG SANTE, whose words resonated as both recognition and encouragement.
“This Joint Action is a clear demonstration that we are stronger when we work together,” she said. “You have laid good foundations for a more united Europe on the global level – which is not a simple thing.”
She reminded participants that, four years after the EU Global Health Strategy was adopted, its mission remains crucial:
“The global landscape is profoundly changing, but its objectives are as relevant as ever. Your work is key to ensuring that Europe speaks with one strong, coherent, and credible voice on global health.”
Looking Ahead
Over three days, the Assembly explored lessons learned, assessed progress across Work Packages, and set priorities for JA GHI 2.0. Interactive sessions with the High-Level Panel and Executive Board focused on future monitoring, sustainability, and alignment with evolving global health needs.
Risks and Challenges
The discussions also acknowledged the complex realities shaping global health today. The fragmentation of international cooperation, geopolitical tensions, and shifting global priorities continue to challenge collective action. The lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, climate-related health emergencies, and disruptions to global supply chains have deepened inequalities and tested health systems worldwide.
For JA GHI, these are not obstacles but realities to navigate – reminders of why coordination, solidarity, and trust are more vital than ever. The Joint Action’s next phase will focus on transforming shared ambitions into concrete, measurable outcomes – ensuring that Europe’s global health leadership remains both credible and resilient in an increasingly uncertain world.
A Shared Commitment
As the meeting drew to a close, participants reaffirmed the central message that defines JA GHI’s work:
Europe’s leadership in global health depends on cooperation, coherence, and a steadfast commitment to equity.
“The pursuit of health, equity, and cooperation cannot pause,” Dr Weinbach concluded. “It is something we must carry forward – together.” The Copenhagen General Assembly stood as both a celebration of progress and a call to action – a reminder that, even in a fragmenting world, collaboration remains our strongest path to health for all.
