Iraq and World Health Organization Celebrate World Health Day 2025 with the Launch of the National Strategy for the Health of Women, Children, and Adolescents

The event featured the official launch of the National Strategy for the Health of Women, Children, and Adolescents, jointly developed by WHO, UNICEF, and UNFPA. It included a high-level panel discussion that emphasized Iraq’s transition from emergency health response to building resilient and sustainable health systems. Discussions focused on strengthening national leadership, multisectoral collaboration, and ensuring equity in health service delivery.

H.E. Dr. Saleh Al-Hasnawi, Minister of Health, stated: “WHO has been a trusted and longstanding partner in supporting Iraq’s health agenda. From emergency response and health system strengthening to technical guidance in developing national strategies, the Organization’s leadership and expertise have been instrumental in advancing equitable, resilient, and people-centered health services.”

Mr. Ghulam Mohammad Isaczai, UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Iraq, noted: “The health sector plays a vital role in Iraq’s development and recovery. This event marks a pivotal moment in our shift from emergency response to sustainable, resilient health systems that serve all. As UN partners, we are committed to supporting Iraq’s leadership and national health agenda in delivering inclusive and sustainable healthcare for everyone.”

The panel discussion was moderated by Dr. Jamela Al-Raiby, WHO Representative in Iraq, and included participants from the UN, Ministry of Health, Prime Minister’s Office, and international partners. The dialogue explored practical approaches to strengthen health systems, invest in early life stages, and integrate services across sectors.

Dr. Al-Raiby emphasized that the event reflected WHO’s core mission to convene, coordinate, and catalyze efforts for healthier communities, reaffirming the joint determination to place women, children, and adolescents at the heart of health policy and investment—because sustainable development begins here.

The event also highlighted key recent health achievements in Iraq, including:

• Maternal mortality rate reduced to 29.6 per 100,000 live births
• Neonatal mortality rate reduced to 10.5 per 1,000 live births
• Under-five mortality rate reduced to 19.7 per 1,000 live births

The event concluded with a renewed call for continued collaboration between the government, the United Nations, and the international community. 

WHO extends its sincere appreciation to all partners and donors for their continued support in improving health in Iraq. The Organization reaffirms its commitment to national priorities and to working alongside partners to ensure that every child in Iraq is protected by a health system that offers them a promising future.

For enquiries:

Dr. Alyaa Mohamed, DDS, MPH, GDL

Public Health Officer

Health Promotion and Determinants of Health

World Health Organization (WHO)

Baghdad, Iraq

Mobile: +964 780 9545 211

Email: mohamedal@who.int