Gianni, Hassan, Ngozi, Filippo, Pamela, dear colleagues and friends,
I would like to start by thanking Gianni, Hassan and Brian for expressing your condolences on our loss. It was indeed tragic news; the first news today as soon as I woke up was that.
He was our RD-elect, waiting to take over as new RD for AFRO. What can we say? It’s beyond words, and the whole organization is in shock. So thank you again for your condolences.
As you know, the FIFA World Cup captures significant global attention and provides unparalleled opportunities for promoting health and well-being on a worldwide scale.
It serves as a powerful platform, not just for showcasing athletic excellence, but also for advocating for public health initiatives that can reach hundreds of millions of people, and even billions.
Over the past six years, WHO and FIFA have worked together to promote physical activity, mental health, nutrition, vaccinations, and to raise awareness about brain injuries.
But from that, the highlight of our partnership has been our joint work during the Qatar World Cup.
Of course, the climate crisis presents another common challenge.
As you know, in July this year global average temperature reached record highs, prompting U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres to issue a global call to action on extreme heat.
As temperatures rise, the levels of air pollution and dangerous solar ultraviolet radiation also increase.
Heatwaves alone are projected to cause 1.6 million deaths by 2050.
WHO supports countries to build climate-resilient health systems, and to promote healthy, safe and environmentally sustainable practices where people live, work and play – such as stadiums, mass gatherings, and workplaces.
Vulnerable and disadvantaged people, including refugees and many migrants, are particularly at risk.
The worlds of sport and health must collaborate to ensure safe, clean and healthy environments for all people engaged in the preparation, delivery and legacy of mega sport events, including workers, athletes, spectators, and communities.
WHO is committed to collaborating with FIFA and the host countries of future tournaments, and all agencies here, to make these events healthier and safer for all.
Looking ahead, we are eager to work with FIFA to draw valuable lessons from the Qatar World Cup.
Our goal is to create a lasting legacy that not only promotes but actively protects health in the future.
By leveraging the visibility and influence of such global events, we can pave the way for meaningful change in public health practices and policies.
I would like to thank FIFA and Qatar for being pathfinders in this legacy project, which is going to be very important.
Thank you for your continued commitment to this important mission. Together, we can make a significant impact on health and well-being worldwide.