“Multilateralism, science and solidarity were tested as never before, underscoring a fundamental truth: international cooperation is not optional,” says Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of World Health Organization. “It is essential if we are to protect and promote health for everyone, everywhere in 2026 and beyond,” he writes in a guest column for AllAfrica, reviewing “Historic Global Health Milestones and Challenges” in 2025.

He cites the Pandemic Agreement adopted by WHO member states in April as “perhaps the most significant milestone” for the year. And he chronicles the public health advances on multiple fronts.