The Health Cluster Forum, held in Istanbul, Türkiye, from 16-18 October 2024, convened Health Cluster Coordinators, WHO regional office representatives, and global health experts to address critical challenges in the health sector and explore opportunities to improve humanitarian health responses in crisis settings. The Forum also focused on how clusters align with WHO at the global, regional, and country level, and tackled thematic issues impacting cluster country operations.
Photo ©Health Cluster: Health Cluster coordinators participating in break-out groups
Several topics included the critical role of Health Clusters in high-risk settings, data integration, and the evolving challenges of climate change, conflict, and limited access to health services in crises. Presentations highlighted innovative approaches in child health, gender-based violence, and information management. Additionally, speakers discussed the importance of health as a focal point in crises, emphasizing the need for resilient healthcare systems. Participants underscored the significance of transparent data practices, inter-agency collaboration, and a localization approach tailored to each context. Some recommendations included advocacy for sustained funding, capacity building for local partners, and frameworks to monitor and evaluate performance.
©Health Cluster: Report back sessions following break-out group work
The Forum also highlighted the need for dedicated funding, transparent data sharing, and capacity-building for local partners to ensure sustainable responses. The Global Health Cluster reaffirmed its commitment to supporting country teams with resources, training, and coordination tools to strengthen crisis response efforts and improve health outcomes for vulnerable populations.
For further details, see the Note for the Record
Meeting document and presentations (access only available to authorized users)