Haiti participated in the 157th session of the World Health Organization (WHO) Executive Board on May 28 and 29, 2025, in Geneva. Of the WHO's 194 Member States, 34 sit on the Executive Board. This body is responsible for implementing the decisions of the World Health Assembly and providing strategic guidance to the Organization. For the first time, Haiti was elected to this Board for the 2025-2028 term.

Remarks by Minister of Health Bertrand Sinal, following Haiti's election to the WHO Executive Board :

"Mr. President,

Mr. Director-General,

Dear Colleagues,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

It is with great honor and a deep sense of responsibility that I address you today on behalf of the Republic of Haiti.

I would like to sincerely thank the Member States for the trust placed in Haiti. Serving on the Executive Board for the first time is much more than a privilege for us : it is a commitment to actively participate in the major decisions that shape global health.

Despite the complex and multidimensional challenges, we remain committed to building a system that is more resilient, more equitable, and, above all, closer to the real needs of our populations, particularly the most vulnerable.

In this context, we welcome the historic and recent adoption of the Pandemic Agreement, which embodies our shared desire to strengthen prevention, preparedness, and response to health emergencies. For a country like Haiti, this agreement must translate concretely into equitable access to resources, enhanced technical support, and a true spirit of solidarity.

We also welcome the approval of the 2026-2027 program budget. It is essential that such an instrument be accompanied by predictable, sustainable funding that is aligned with the priorities of countries, particularly those in fragile situations or with limited capacity.

As a member of the Executive Board, Haiti is committed to contributing and collaborating resolutely in global governance. We will be a committed voice:

• For a WHO that is more inclusive, more transparent, and closer to the realities on the ground;

• For cooperation based on solidarity and respect for national institutions;

• So that, everywhere, health is recognized and protected as a fundamental right.

Thank you for your attention."

IH/ S/ iciHaiti