As the world faces new health challenges—from pandemics to climate change—there is a growing need to think beyond the present and prepare for what lies ahead. In response, the WHO Western Pacific Regional Office (WPRO) has launched the Museum of Health Futures as a key component of its ongoing initiative to explore the future of health in the Region.

Launched in 2024, the Museum of Health Futures is a collaborative effort between WHO WPRO’s Strategic Dialogue Unit (DIA), the Data, Strategy and Innovation Division (DSI), the Museum of Discovery (MOD.), and researchers at the University of South Australia. 

Aligned with WPRO’s new vision “Weaving health for families, communities and societies of the Western Pacific Region”, this initiative is rooted in futures-thinking and strategic foresight, with the goal of helping organizations and Member States anticipate, adapt, and thrive in an ever-changing world. Key objectives of the Museum of Health Futures are to:

• Engage health leaders, experts, and the public in imagining diverse health futures.
• Spark discussions that inspire innovative thinking around how Member States, partners, and WPRO can ensure that health systems remain adaptable and resilient in the face of future challenges.
• Reflect on past achievements, while also fostering a forward-looking approach to public health.
• Encourage a forward-looking approach to public health that embraces uncertainty and builds resilience in health systems and communities.

Looking ahead

The initiative began with participatory foresight workshops held during World Health Day in 2024, where WHO staff and partners came together to envision a variety of future health scenarios. The Museum of Health Futures represents the culmination of these workshops, showcasing speculative objects that explore potential future health challenges and possibilities.  More than just an exhibition, the initiative serves as a dynamic platform for ongoing dialogue and collaboration, providing tangible insights to guide future-oriented decision-making. This exhibition is just one component of the broader, evolving initiative that will continue to incorporate new ideas and perspectives. By embedding futures-thinking into the core of public health strategy, WPRO aims to build a healthier, more resilient Western Pacific Region—one that is prepared to face the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow.