Dr. Hanan Balkhi: Science is the foundation for improving healthcare globally
Dr. Hanan Hassan Balkhi, Regional Director of the World Health Organization for the Eastern Mediterranean, affirmed that science is the cornerstone and fundamental pillar of all efforts to understand diseases and develop vaccines. She explained that relying on scientific methodologies directly contributes to improving healthcare and providing it more efficiently and at a lower cost, thus making medical services more equitable and accessible to all segments of society.
A historic journey towards enhancing medical awareness
This statement comes amidst ongoing efforts by the international community to highlight pressing medical issues. Historically, the World Health Organization (WHO) was founded in 1948 and has since undertaken the mission of guiding and coordinating international health action. Each year, a specific theme is highlighted, reflecting a high priority in public health. This long history of collaborative work has repeatedly demonstrated that adhering to scientific facts is the only way to empower communities to make informed, evidence-based decisions. This approach directly helps protect communities from the growing risks associated with regional conflicts, global climate change, and emerging epidemics that threaten the stability of nations.
Year's slogan: Together to support science in healthcare
Dr. Balkhi revealed that this year's theme, "Together for Health, Support Science," sends a clear message: scientific data alone is insufficient to achieve desired goals without genuine commitment and diligent action. She emphasized that the world today urgently needs to build bridges of trust and international cooperation, along with sustained investment to translate theoretical knowledge into tangible, practical work that benefits all of humanity. She noted that the organization, through this slogan, seeks to encourage governments and individuals to support and implement scientific research as a strategic option for addressing the complex medical challenges currently facing the Eastern Mediterranean region.
Strategic impacts at the local and international levels
Adopting science-based policies has far-reaching effects, extending beyond the local level to encompass broader regional and international dimensions. Locally, it ensures the provision of curative and preventative services tailored to the actual needs of the population, thereby reducing mortality rates. Regionally, scientific collaboration contributes to the harmonization of treatment protocols among neighboring countries, limiting the spread of cross-border epidemics. Internationally, investment in science and medical innovation reduces the gaps between developed and developing countries and ensures a faster and more effective response to future emergencies.
Exceptional efforts by medical staff and a safe future
In a related context, the Regional Director commended the exceptional efforts of health workers and scientists across the region. She emphasized that they work daily to save lives and strengthen medical systems under the most challenging field conditions. She noted that these efforts are supported technically and intellectually by the WHO's global network of over 800 collaborating centers worldwide, facilitating the exchange of expertise. She concluded by stressing that prioritizing science is not merely a technical choice, but a moral and humanitarian responsibility that ensures future generations live in an environment protected by knowledge and grounded in established facts, free from arbitrariness.
