WHO Webinar: Unlocking Emergency Preparedness through Effective Governance (2026)

In a world where public health emergencies can strike at any moment, the role of National Public Health Agencies (NPHAs) is more crucial than ever. These agencies are the front line of defense, tasked with preventing, detecting, and responding to health threats that could impact entire populations. But how effective are they, and what factors influence their performance? This is the central question that the WHO Health Emergencies Programme (WHE) and the Alliance for Health Policy and Systems Research (the Alliance) are exploring through a multi-country learning program.

The program aims to shed light on the often-overlooked aspect of governance and structural arrangements within NPHAs. While technical capacity is undoubtedly important, the ability of these agencies to function effectively during crises is intricately tied to the governance mechanisms in place.

A recent cross-country study examined ten NPHAs across diverse settings, revealing three distinct governance models in relation to the Ministry of Health (MOH): MOH-integrated public health units, MOH-overseen NPHAs, and independent NPHAs. Interestingly, the study found that while structural position influenced the agencies' capabilities, it did not solely determine their practical effectiveness.

So, what did determine their effectiveness? The study identified several critical governance factors linked to emergency preparedness and response (EPR). These included the clarity and enforceability of legal mandates, the degree of operational autonomy over staffing and financing, data and evidence-sharing arrangements, and financing mechanisms that enabled timely action.

These findings highlight the complex interplay between governance and practical capabilities within NPHAs. It's not just about the structure; it's about the governance factors that empower these agencies to act effectively during emergencies.

A key takeaway is the importance of clear and enforceable legal mandates. Without a solid legal foundation, NPHAs may struggle to assert their authority and take decisive action when needed. Similarly, operational autonomy over staffing and financing is crucial. NPHAs must have the flexibility to adapt their workforce and financial resources to meet the unique challenges of each emergency.

The ability to access, share, and communicate data and evidence is another critical aspect. In an emergency, timely and accurate information can be a matter of life and death. NPHAs must have efficient systems in place to gather, analyze, and disseminate data to inform decision-making and public health responses.

Lastly, financing arrangements that enable timely action are essential. Emergencies often require rapid responses, and NPHAs must have the financial means to mobilize quickly. This may involve having access to emergency funds or the ability to reallocate resources swiftly.

The upcoming webinar, "Strengthening the governance of national public health agencies for emergency preparedness and response," will delve deeper into these findings. It will provide a platform for country perspectives from different governance models, offering insights into how governance arrangements shape emergency action in practice.

The webinar aims to bring together global partners to reflect on the implications of these findings for NPHA reform and strengthening. It will also identify practical lessons for national leaders, international organizations, and funders on supporting more effective governance arrangements.

As we navigate an increasingly complex and interconnected world, the role of NPHAs in safeguarding public health cannot be overstated. By understanding the governance factors that influence their effectiveness, we can work towards building stronger, more resilient public health systems that are better equipped to handle emergencies.

In my opinion, this webinar is a crucial step towards ensuring that NPHAs are not just well-equipped technically but also empowered through effective governance to protect public health during crises. It's an opportunity to learn from diverse experiences and perspectives, and I look forward to the insights and reflections that will emerge.