The World Health Day 2026 which was observed on April 7, called on people everywhere to stand with science. Under the theme "Together for Health. Stand with Science," this year's observance launched a year-long campaign celebrating the power of scientific collaboration to protect the health of people, animals, plants, and the planet.
The date carries deep historical significance. World Health Day commemorates the founding of the World Health Organization and the entry into force of the WHO Constitution on April 7, 1948. The observance was formally established by the World Health Assembly and has been held annually since 1950.
The 2026 theme emphasizes the vital role of science in addressing global health challenges, particularly amid widespread misinformation. It promotes a One Health approach, linking the well-being of people, animals, and the planet to create stronger, more resilient healthcare systems.
Anchoring the 2026 campaign were two major global moments: the International One Health Summit, hosted by the Government of France under the French G7 Presidency, and the inaugural Global Forum of WHO Collaborating Centres, gathering nearly 800 scientific institutions from over 80 countries. Together, these events formed the largest scientific network ever convened around a United Nations agency.
Human health has been profoundly transformed over the past century, largely due to scientific progress and international collaboration. Global maternal mortality has fallen by more than 40% since 2000, and deaths among children under five have been reduced by over 50%.
Over the past 50 years, global immunization efforts have saved over 154 million children from infectious diseases. Vaccines have contributed to a 40% reduction in infant mortality, with just one vaccine, the measles vaccine, saving nearly 59 million children.
WHO and its partners work around the clock to generate scientific knowledge on key health priorities, from healthy diets to water, sanitation, vaccines and medicines, infections, chronic conditions, and mental health, sharing evidence and strengthening countries' research capacities for more equitable access to health care.
Governments and institutions were called upon to strengthen investment in science, support WHO's normative role, and embed evidence in health, climate, food, and environmental decision-making.
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