Ahmed J Versi
The World Innovation Summit for Health (WISH), an initiative of Qatar Foundation for Education, Science, and Community Development, hosted its seventh Summit in Doha on November 13-14.
This year’s gathering drew over 3,000 global health policymakers, innovators, entrepreneurs, researchers, and practitioners to tackle urgent healthcare challenges. Centred on the theme “Humanizing Health: Conflict, Equity, and Resilience,” the summit addressed the profound challenges facing healthcare in conflict zones.
A central topic of discussion was the alarming escalation of attacks on healthcare facilities during conflicts. Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organization, expressed deep concern on rise in these attacks, particularly over the past two years. He stressed that healthcare facilities should never be targeted, especially during times of heightened medical need. Dr Tedros also called for an end to the attacks in Gaza and the resumption of peace talks. Dr Hanan Mohamed Al Kuwari, Qatar’s former Minister of Public Health, emphasized the summit’s core message, advocating for global peace and the protection of healthcare amid ongoing wars and mass displacement. Lord Darzi of Denham, Executive Chair of WISH, condemned the targeting of healthcare workers and infrastructure, lauding those who courageously deliver care in perilous conditions.
Beyond the focus on conflict, the Summit also explored the ethical management of artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare, recognising the growing role of AI in shaping the future of health innovation.
The summit served as a powerful platform for addressing the urgent need for resilience, equity, and peace in global health amidst ongoing crises.
Photo: DEIR AL-BALAH, GAZA – DECEMBER 18, 2024: Five-year-old Misk Bilal al-Madhoun suffers from cerebral palsy and malnutrition, reflecting the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza amid persistent Israeli attacks. (Credit: Hassan Jedi/AA)
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