Terms of Reference for the Technical Advisory Group on Health Security Interface (HSI-TAG) 2025

Overview

The Technical Advisory Group on Health Security Interface (HSI-TAG) established by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 2019, plays a crucial role in advising on the intersection of health and security. The group identifies gaps, vulnerabilities, challenges, and opportunities within the health-security interface. It provides WHO with technical and scientific advice relevant to protecting health from traditional and emerging threats, including chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) hazards.

HSI-TAG also advises WHO on creating platforms for information sharing among international and non-governmental organizations, civil defense, military health personnel, law enforcement, and other security-related entities. This coordination is essential for a comprehensive response to health emergencies, ensuring that health policies are effectively communicated and enforced, and that security forces are prepared to support public health initiatives.  HSI-TAG's recommendations help WHO enhance its readiness for deliberate outbreaks and improve international coordination with security partners. 

The group's terms of reference were updated in 2022 and 2024 to optimize administrative efficiency and ensure alignment with WHO's strategic objectives. This update reflects the organization’s Fourteenth General Programme of Work (GPW14) and clarification of maximum terms served by the a member (2 terms).