World Health Day 2026: unite for health and stand with science

7 April 2026, Cairo, Egypt - On World Health Day, the World Health Organization (WHO) calls on governments, partners, health workers and communities across the Eastern Mediterranean Region to unite under the theme "Together for health. Stand with science."

This year's campaign celebrates the power of scientific collaboration to protect the health of people, animals, plants and the planet, and highlights the importance of translating evidence into action through strong partnerships and multilateral cooperation.

Countries across the Eastern Mediterranean Region face complex overlapping challenges, including conflict, displacement and climate-related threats. They place immense strain on health systems and communities and underscore the urgent need for sustained investment in science, innovation and evidence-based solutions tailored to national and local contexts.

Strengthening national research ecosystems, fostering innovation and promoting open science and community engagement are essential to build public trust and improve health outcomes. Investing in science today strengthens our ability to prevent, detect and respond to health emergencies tomorrow.

Innovation is accelerating progress against some of the world's most persistent health threats. New vaccines, treatments and control tools, including pioneering technologies such as genetic modification of mosquitoes and long-acting injectables, are advancing rapidly.

Alongside prevention and treatment, science is revolutionizing diagnosis and care. Digital technologies such as CT scans, MRI and ultrasound allow doctors to see inside the human body without invasive procedures, saving lives every day.

Anchoring the 2026 campaign are two major global moments: the International One Health Summit (7 April), hosted by the Government of France under the French G7 Presidency, and the inaugural Global Forum of WHO Collaborating Centres (7-9 April), gathering nearly 800 scientific institutions from over 80 countries, events that demonstrate how science-driven partnerships can build a healthier and safer future for all.

WHO calls on governments, scientists, health workers, partners and the public to stand with science by engaging with evidence, facts and science-based guidance to protect health.

"Science is the cornerstone of everything we do in health. It helps us understand diseases, develop vaccines and treatments and deliver care more efficiently and affordably - making services more equitable and accessible," says WHO Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean Dr Hanan Balkhy.

Science must be trusted, supported and translated into action. Science is not abstract. It protects individuals, families and communities every day.

On this World Health Day, WHO calls on everyone to make informed health decisions, support science-led solutions and engage with trusted, evidence-based information.

Health decisions must be guided by evidence to protect health, prevent disease and ensure access to appropriate treatment and care.

Together for health. Stand with science.