PAHO Director calls for country ownership and regional solidarity in reshaping global health architecture

Berlin, 15 October 2026 (PAHO) – Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) Director and WHO Regional Director for the Americas Dr. Jarbas Barbosa called for countries and regional institutions to have a stronger role in shaping ongoing reforms of the global health system during the World Health Summit 2026 in Berlin this week, arguing that clearer responsibilities across national, regional and global levels can reduce duplication and help limited health resources deliver greater impact.

His call comes as WHO Member States and global health partners are examining how health cooperation is governed, financed and delivered amid tighter financial conditions and concerns over fragmentation and duplication. The reform process is considering how responsibilities, coordination and financing should be aligned across country, regional and global levels, with final recommendations expected to be considered by the World Health Assembly in 2027. 

Drawing on the experience of the Americas, Dr. Barbosa highlighted how regional cooperation can bridge global health commitments and action within countries.

“As the global health architecture evolves, regional institutions must have a stronger voice in shaping decisions, not only in implementing them. Country ownership, regional leadership and effective partnerships are essential to building a more inclusive, responsive and sustainable global health system,” Dr. Barbosa said. 

From global commitments to country results

During the Summit's main-stage discussion on Governing Global Health Architecture in a Multipolar World, Dr. Barbosa highlighted more than 120 years of cooperation among countries of the Americas through PAHO. Regional approaches ranging from pooled procurement to primary health care, disease elimination, and health innovation and production, he said, illustrate how countries can work collectively on challenges where regional action brings added value.