World Health Day 2026

World Health Day, observed on 7 April, kicks off a year-long campaign celebrating the power of scientific innovation and collaboration to improve health.

Advances in public health depend on strong partnerships – from the One Health approach that connects the health of people, animals and the planet, to WHO’s network of over 800 Collaborating Centres that drive research, laboratory surveillance, vaccine development and public health training worldwide.  

With the theme, “Together for health. Stand with science,” the campaign calls on governments, scientists, health workers, partners, and the public to:

• Stand with science by engaging with evidence, facts, and science-based guidance to protect health
• Rebuild trust in science and public health
• Support science-led solutions for a healthier future. 

Events

This year’s campaign is anchored on two global events: the international One Health Summit (5–7 April), hosted by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Government of France under the French G7 Presidency; and the inaugural Global Forum of WHO Collaborating Centres (7–9 April), gathering scientific institutions from over 80 countries. 

Together, they represent the largest scientific network convened by a United Nations agency, underscoring how science-driven partnerships can build a healthier, safer future for all. 

Regional highlights 

The regional campaign puts a spotlight on country examples of One Health implementation in the Western Pacific and showcases contributions from the region’s WHO Collaborating Centres – a network of over 190 partner institutions supporting Member States – that have advanced public health gains.