Global health partnerships
Global health partnerships, such as the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, and GAVI, the Vaccine Alliance, were established to streamline efforts in the health sector and respond to the challenges posed by the new aid environment. They involve governments, civil society, international organizations, the private sector and affected communities under an umbrella framework. Their goal is to achieve health improvement that no organization could achieve alone.
WHO cooperates with both the above mentioned global health partnerships through engaging in their governance structures, and providing leadership on technical and health systems approaches.
GAVI, the Vaccine Alliance
GAVI, the Vaccine Alliance (GAVI) was set up as a global health partnership in 2000 with the goal of creating equal access to new and underused vaccines for children living in the world’s poorest countries. In particular, GAVI aims at accelerating access to vaccines, strengthening countries’ health and immunization systems, and introducing innovative new immunization technology.
WHO is 1 of 4 permanent members of the GAVI Board, and is alternate Chair (with the United Nations Children’s Fund) of GAVI’s Executive Committee. WHO further supports GAVI’s activities by facilitating vaccine-related research and development, standards setting and regulating vaccine quality. It also develops evidence-based policy options to guide vaccine use and maximize country access. GAVI benefits from WHO input on issues ranging from cold chain and vaccine management, to training and post-introduction analysis of vaccines.
WHO/Europe including its country offices supports the coordination of GAVI activities in countries in the European Region. WHO offices assist country health authorities in drafting applications for GAVI support and developing work plans for vaccine programmes in countries. WHO/Europe provides technical support to immunization programmes, including storage and logistics, as well as undertaking monitoring and evaluation measures.
Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria
The Global Fund is a global partnership to defeat HIV, tuberculosis (TB) and malaria and ensure a healthier, safer, more equitable future for all. The Global Fund raises funds on a 3-year cycle to bring longer term predictability in the fight against AIDS, TB and malaria, reinforcing resilient and sustainable systems for health. Governments, the private sector and foundations pledge funds to support its mission.
In the European Region, WHO/Europe works closely with the Global Fund Secretariat and provides technical assistance.