Leaders Will Convene Global Health Roundtable
The September 24, 2026 meeting will address structural vulnerabilities in global health architecture.
Updated on Sept. 23, 2026 in COVID-19
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On September 24, 2026, the Club de Madrid and the AHF Global Public Health Institute will co-host a high-level roundtable at the University Club in New York City. The event, held during the 81st United Nations General Assembly, gathers experts to address international health crises.
Why it matters
The discussion aims to confront systemic weaknesses in the global health infrastructure, specifically focusing on the intersection of infectious disease outbreaks and rising debt burdens. This dialogue seeks to improve institutional responses to future health threats.
The AIDS Healthcare Foundation currently provides medical services to 3.2 million individuals across 50 countries. The roundtable will feature contributions from Club de Madrid members representing 70 nations.
The players
Club de Madrid
This independent non-profit organization is comprised of 130 former heads of state and government from democratic nations.
AIDS Healthcare Foundation
This global non-profit organization provides cutting-edge medicine and advocacy to millions of people in 50 countries.
World Health Organization
This is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for international public health.
The details
The event, co-hosted by the governments of Spain and Zambia, invites participation from global health experts, civil society, academia, and multilateral institutions. Discussions are structured to occur in person at the University Club and virtually via Zoom.
Timeline
January 2025: AIDS Healthcare Foundation received the MLK, Jr. Social Justice Award.
September 24, 2026: The global health governance roundtable takes place.
May 27: Deadline set for finalizing the PABS Annex to the WHO Pandemic Agreement.
Deeper Dive
This roundtable supports the ongoing negotiations of the WHO Pandemic Agreement by addressing critical framework components. The discussions specifically influence the development of the PABS Annex due for completion by May 27.
Decisions regarding global health architecture directly influence the consistency of medical supply chains and the availability of essential treatments. Improved international policy coordination can determine the speed and efficacy of future responses to disease outbreaks.
The takeaway
Collaborative international efforts at the United Nations level are essential for stabilizing global health responses. Strengthening these institutional partnerships remains a key priority for navigating the complexities of modern disease surveillance.
What happens next
Negotiators are scheduled to finalize the PABS Annex to the WHO Pandemic Agreement by May 27.
Further reading
For more information on the international response to health crises, visit COVID-19.
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Do you trust that international health agreements are effectively preparing the world for future pandemics?
