In memory of Dr Mira Jovanovski-Dasic, Head of SEEHN Secretariat
Sofia, Bulgaria, 25-27 November 2024
Representatives from the South Eastern Europe Health Network (SEEHN) Member States, are participating in the highly anticipated Executive Training Course on Global Health Diplomacy in Times of Emergencies and Strengthening Preparedness, held in Sofia, Bulgaria.
The event, hosted under the Bulgarian Presidency of the SEEHN in collaboration with the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Bulgaria, the Bulgarian Diplomatic Institute, and the WHO Country Office Bulgaria, brought together more that 50 participants, high-level representatives and health diplomacy experts from the region. The event was honored by the presence of the Bulgarian Minister of Health, Dr. Galya Kondeva, who delivered an inspiring welcome address during the opening ceremony, underscoring Bulgaria’s commitment to fostering health diplomacy in the region.
Co-financed by the WHO Regional Office for Europe, the course provided an exceptional platform for advancing the capacities of senior health managers in the SEE region.
The primary goal of the training is to enhance preparedness and foster stronger health diplomacy practices, equipping participants to navigate the increasingly complex intersections of health policy, negotiations, and diplomacy.
Objectives of the Course:
- Strengthen the management-level capacities of SEEHN member states in health diplomacy with a global health perspective.
- Build skills to bridge health policy, negotiations, and diplomacy for better health outcomes in the SEE region.
- Provide a tailored curriculum reflecting the specific needs and challenges of the SEE region in global health emergencies.
Agenda Highlights:
- Keynote speeches by esteemed global health and diplomacy experts, including Prof. Ilona Kickbusch, Prof. Michel Kazatchkine, Dr. Michaly Kokeny, Prof. Haik Nikogosian and Dr. Vesna Kerstin Petrich, provided invaluable insights into global health diplomacy in a rapidly evolving geopolitical landscape.
- A dedicated session on the EU health agenda, titled “Navigating the EU Health Agenda: Strategic Priorities and Diplomatic Efforts,” Mr Willy Palm and Mrs Caroline Bollars, on behalf of Dr. Oxana Domenti, WHO Representative to the EU (online), emphasizing the EU’s role in shaping regional health strategies.
- On behalf of the Bulgarian Diplomatic Institute, presentations and lectures were made by its Director, Mrs Tanya Mihaylova, by Chief Experts Dr Valentin Katrandjiev and Mrs Marina Vladimirova, as well as by former vice-minister and ambassador Mrs Katya Todorova, who addressed topics related to the aspects of modern diplomacy and protocol. In addition, presentations were delivered by representatives from the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Bulgaria, Mrs Katya Ivkova, Director “European Coordination and International Cooperation” Directorate and Mrs Vesela Vuchkova, Chief Expert.
- Insghtful presentation on System & Method of Health Diplomacy in the Humanitarian Space was delivered by Dr Guillaume Simonian, a.i. WHO representative, CO Bulgaria.
- An interactive simulation exercise offered participants a hands-on experience in multilateral negotiations, specifically addressing modalities for vaccine access under the threat of a new health emergency. The exercise was led by Prof. Michel Kazatchkine and other global health experts, fostering practical skills and collaborative problem-solving among participants.
- In-depth sessions on global health instruments, negotiation strategies during emergencies, and the evolving role of modern diplomacy provided attendees with the tools and knowledge to navigate complex health challenges effectively.
- Regional case studies showcased successful health diplomacy practices, and strategic use of health diplomacy as soft power in international relations.
- A keynote address by H.E. Mrs. Ursula Höfter Zuccoli on the humanitarian mission and diplomatic efforts of the Sovereign Order of Malta.
The course concluded with a roundtable discussion on the challenges and future directions for sub-regional health diplomacy, followed by a closing ceremony and certificates presentation.
The SEEHN Secretariat commends Bulgaria for the extraordinary welcome and support and all Member States for their active participation and dedication to advancing regional health diplomacy. This event marks a significant milestone in SEEHN’s continued commitment to enhancing collaboration and preparedness in the face of global health emergencies.
