Catalysts for Change: How the World Health Summit Sparks New Directions in Global Health

Conferences can be more than meetings — they can be catalysts for change. The World Health Summit 2025, held in Berlin and online from October 12–14, exemplifies this spirit. Experts, policymakers, and leaders from around the globe will convene to discuss solutions for the world’s most urgent health challenges.

The WHS has long been recognized as a hub for cross-sector collaboration, connecting academia, politics, business, and civil society. By fostering discussions on innovation, health system resilience, governance, and equity, the summit acts as a launchpad for initiatives that can have tangible global impact.

IAP’s participation underscores the importance of scientific collaboration in policy-making. IAP brings decades of experience in facilitating evidence-based solutions and translating research into actionable strategies for health systems worldwide. At WHS 2025, these insights will inform critical debates on equitable access, innovation adoption, and sustainable healthcare infrastructure.

Ahead of the summit, IAP will host a dedicated strategy workshop for alumni of the Young Physician Leaders (YPLs) Programme — a group of 11 exceptional early-career health professionals from around the world. The workshop, organized in partnership with the European School of Management and Technology (ESMT) in Berlin, will focus on developing the future path for the alumni programme, how to amplify its impact and will set the tone for the programme's future direction. Following the workshop, the YPLs will take part in the WHS, contributing their perspectives and engaging directly with senior decision-makers.

IAP extends its gratitude to the World Health Summit Academic Alliance for generously providing registration waivers for all IAP participants. This act of support reflects the WHS community’s commitment to inclusivity and collaboration, ensuring that diverse voices — from emerging leaders to seasoned experts — contribute to shaping the future of global health.

Beyond dialogue, the summit empowers stakeholders to turn ideas into action, bridging the gap between knowledge and implementation. From interactive sessions to keynote panels, WHS 2025 provides opportunities for organizations like IAP to connect, collaborate, and catalyze real-world change.

Whether attending in person or online, participants are encouraged to engage with IAP and other global leaders in shaping the future of health — because gatherings like the WHS are more than conversations; they are drivers of transformation for a healthier, more equitable world.

Check the programme here. For those unable to attend in person, sessions can be watched via livestreaming.  

Discover more: worldhealthsummit.org