Action on World Health Launches Comprehensive Review of WHO Policies and Governance Structures

Action on World Health Launches WHO Review

In a bold move aimed at addressing the numerous challenges faced by global health governance, the Action on World Health (AWH) has officially launched the 'Bell Review'. This initiative, spearheaded by Dr. David Bell—a seasoned former medical officer with the World Health Organization (WHO)—enlists a diverse panel of nine experts with extensive credentials in international health systems, including past WHO and UN officials. The critical objective of the review is to evaluate the operational dynamics of international health organizations and propose substantial reforms or potential replacements for the WHO.

Composition and Goals of the Bell Review

The Bell Review delves into pressing concerns surrounding the WHO’s structure and function in the wake of growing discontent regarding its effectiveness. This review reflects AWH's vision for a health organization that prioritizes the sovereignty and autonomy of nations while addressing public health issues collaboratively.

Key Phases of the Review

The review will unpack its inquiries in two phases over a span of several months:

- Phase 1 (Reporting in five months)

1. Establishing principles for an international health organization.
2. Clarifying the purpose of an International Health Organization.
3. Evaluating the WHO's position within the global health landscape.
4. Proposing improvements for better governance.
5. Identifying areas where the WHO succeeds and fails.

- Phase 2 (Reporting in ten months)

6. Analyzing the WHO's shortcomings and critical factors leading to its inefficacies.
7. Outlining strategies for reforming or potentially replacing the WHO.

Dr. Bell, expressing his concerns regarding the organization’s divergence from its founding principles, emphasizes the significance of restoration through effective reforms. The vision shared by AWH and the review team promotes accountability of the WHO to both national governments and citizens, as opposed to current top-down policies.