Towards global health governance in the post SDG world

We are approaching a turning point in global health due to reductions in development assistance, rapid technological change and the growing influence of countries in the global south, several of which have become important producers of drugs and diagnostic equipment. The global health system faces a period of rapid change in a context of geopolitical contestation that is affecting the governance of every sector. Since there is agreement on key global health objectives, health could be an arena in which to build more inclusive global governance. Governments and other stakeholders in the global north and south will need to participate in building a consensus, which includes a variety of initiatives to address priority problems. The WHO can play an important role in supporting change by providing a platform for evidence-based consultations on specific issues, exchanges about how different ways to address a challenge have worked and ensuring that all affected groups have a voice. The focus should be on convening, supporting evidence-based learning and building consensus, rather than prescribing.