The South-Eastern Europe Health Network (SEEHN) took great pride in its involvement at the inaugural International Congress on Preventive Medicine and Public Health, which took place in Struga, North Macedonia, from October 31 to November 2, 2024.
This significant event brought together leading experts and healthcare professionals with the goal of sharing best practices, fostering collaboration, and enhancing public health across the region.
Assoc. Prof. Angel Kunchev, Chief State Health Inspector from the Bulgarian Ministry of Health, delivered a compelling presentation on the joint efforts between the Ministry of Health and the World Health Organization (WHO) in supporting Ukrainian refugees in Bulgaria. His talk shed light on various initiatives, including a Risk Communication and Community Engagement strategy, mental health services, and a vaccination information campaign specifically designed to meet the needs of refugee populations.
Vesela Vuchkova, Chief Expert at the Bulgarian Ministry of Health, also took the stage to discuss Regional Health Diplomacy (RHD). She highlighted the critical role of RHD in international relations, emphasizing the necessity of regional cooperation to strenghten health systems, share effective practices, and collaboratively address both routine and emerging health challenges.
The congress tackled crucial topics such as the One Health Approach, Chronic Non-Communicable Diseases, Climate Change and Health, and the urgency of addressing Infectious Diseases and Immunization. These themes reflect the pressing priorities for regional health resilience, highlighting the significance of preventive strategies and cooperative frameworks in addressing urgent health issues. SEEHN is dedicated to continuing these vital discussions and ensuring that collaborative efforts contribute to a healthier and safer future for all.
