From July 7 to 9, over 70 health experts and national representatives from nine South-East Asian countries convened in New Delhi for the 2025 Annual Meeting of the South-East Asia Regional Working Group (RWG) on Immunization. This hybrid-format summit was crucial in shaping the future of immunization programs throughout the WHO South-East Asia Region.
The gathering included key officials from WHO, UNICEF, Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, and other vital partners. The primary focus was on:
- Reviewing progress on the Regional Vaccine Implementation Plan (2022–2026)
- Identifying and addressing vaccine coverage gaps
- Managing funding constraints amid evolving global health strategies
The WHO Regional Director highlighted the region’s immunization achievements but also stressed persistent challenges such as the increasing number of unvaccinated children and the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Eight strategic priorities were introduced, including:
- Integrating immunization with broader health systems
- Enhancing community engagement
- Mobilizing domestic resources effectively
Country delegates provided updates on their national vaccination efforts, noting shared issues like vaccine hesitancy and the imperative for stronger surveillance mechanisms. Additionally, the RWG’s terms of reference were updated to pursue better coordination and advocacy in light of changing donor landscapes.
The meeting concluded with the adoption of a comprehensive workplan aimed at:
- Accelerating immunization goals
- Strengthening health systems
- Encouraging cross-border collaboration
This unified approach demonstrated a strong commitment among participants to ensure equitable and resilient immunization systems across South-East Asia.
Stay tuned to Questiqa World News for further updates on this important regional health initiative.
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