Exploring Indigenous Health Equities: WHO Hosts Follow-up Event to Present Preliminary Findings

In May 2023, the World Health Organization (WHO) will host a follow-up event to present the preliminary findings of a global literature review on indigenous peoples’ health. The event will take place during the 17th session of the Expert Mechanism on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (EMRIP) in Room XXVI, Palais des Nations, Geneva, Switzerland.

The literature review was launched in response to Resolution 76.16 on the health of indigenous peoples adopted by the 76th World Health Assembly. The review aims to analyze key health outcomes in which Indigenous peoples experience health inequities, social determinants of health, and the availability, affordability, acceptability and quality of health services for Indigenous peoples.

The WHO Director-General has been tasked with developing a Global Plan of Action for Indigenous Health in consultation with various stakeholders. The plan aims to address the challenges faced by Indigenous peoples in accessing quality healthcare services and improve their overall health outcomes.

The keynote speaker at the event will be Valmaine Toki, a member of the Expert Mechanism on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. Other speakers include Pauliina (Lina) Nikeren-Retaroli, Senior Technical Manager and Head of the Human Rights Unit at WHO, Rodrigo Paillalef, Lead Researcher for the Development of Situation Analysis and Member of the UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous Peoples, and Mariam Vallet Aboubakrine, Lead Researcher for situation analysis development and president of Tinhinan Association.

A side event will also be held during which participants can engage in an open discussion to advance research. A light lunch will be served prior to the event at 12:45, providing attendees with a networking opportunity.

The WHO is committed to addressing systemic issues that contribute to poorer health outcomes among Indigenous populations around the world. This follow-up event is an important step towards developing a comprehensive plan that addresses these issues head-on.