Health Leaders Reaffirm Immunization Agenda 2030

More than 70 Member States and regional groups, alongside non-State actors, technical partners and professional associations, voiced strong support for the IA2030 Mid-Term Review , under WHA agenda item 12.3 , emphasizing that strong immunization programmes remain the foundation of outbreak preparedness, resilient health systems and long-term health security.

As global health systems confront mounting pressures from conflict, climate shocks, economic instability, and declining trust in science, Member States called for sustainable country-led immunization programmes, deeper integration with primary health care systems, and more targeted support from global health agencies and partners, particularly for fragile, vulnerable and conflict-affected settings.

World cannot afford complacency

During the WHA discussion, Member States repeatedly warned that progress toward IA2030 targets remains off track and that the global immunization landscape is becoming increasingly fragile. Rising measles outbreaks, declining routine immunization coverage in several regions, and widening inequalities in access to vaccines have exposed dangerous gaps.

Delegates stressed the urgent need to recover lost ground, particularly for zero-dose and under-immunized children who remain beyond the reach of essential health services, while recognizing the achievements of the "Big Catch-Up" initiative as a critical mechanism for reaching these children.

Investment in immunization was a key theme among discussions, with several Member States warning that unless investments are sustained and political commitment remains high, the world risks entering a period of backsliding in immunization coverage and disease control. Member States increasingly emphasized the importance of domestic investment and country ownership to secure long-term immunization gains.

Calls also intensified for stronger regional vaccine manufacturing capacity and diversified supply chains to reduce dependence on external markets and improve global vaccine security.

Increasing threat of misinformation

The discussions also highlighted the growing threat posed by misinformation, vaccine hesitancy and declining public trust. Member States emphasized that rebuilding vaccine confidence will be critical to achieving IA2030 goals, particularly as false narratives continue to spread rapidly across digital platforms. Several countries called for stronger community engagement, investment in health communication, and evidence-based strategies to counter misinformation and mistrust.

Future of immunization

Beyond closing immunity gaps, delegates presented a broader vision for the future of immunization. Many countries outlined advances in introducing new vaccines, modernizing surveillance systems, expanding digital immunization registries, and strengthening life-course vaccination approaches that protect people at all ages.

Delegates also emphasized the importance of integrating immunization into primary health care systems and national preparedness frameworks so that countries are better equipped to respond to future pandemics and disease outbreaks.

In response to Member States, WHO committed to advancing the recommendations of the IA2030 Mid-Term Review, prioritizing zero-dose children and equity, rebuilding trust in vaccines, and strengthening collaboration with Gavi, UNICEF and other partners. WHO also stressed the importance of stronger coordination across the evolving global health architecture to sustain immunization gains through 2030 and beyond.

As the decade advances, Member States signaled that the success of IA2030 will depend not only on scientific innovation, but on political commitment, sustained financing, community trust and international solidarity. The coming years will determine whether the world can translate the IA2030 commitments into immunization for all.

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