SWITZERLAND — In a significant move to confront the profound impact of climate change on global health, WHO has named Dr. Vanessa Kerry as the Director-General Special Envoy for Climate Change and Health.
As a distinguished global health expert, medical doctor, and CEO of Seed Global Health, Dr. Kerry will play a pivotal role in amplifying WHO’s climate and health messaging, undertaking high-level advocacy, and driving transformative action.
Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, expressed his delight with Dr. Kerry’s appointment, stating, “We are delighted to have Dr. Vanessa Kerry join WHO as our Special Envoy for Climate Change and Health.
“Her extensive experience and dedication to public health make her an invaluable asset in addressing the health consequences of climate change. Together, we will work towards a more sustainable and resilient future for all.”
Climate change has emerged as the greatest health challenge of the 21st century, affecting multiple dimensions of human well-being.
Extreme weather events, the spread of diseases, strain on health infrastructure and workforce capacity, and other related factors are significantly impacting global health.
As the Director-General Special Envoy for Climate Change and Health, Dr. Kerry’s responsibilities encompass amplifying climate and health messaging, engaging in high-level advocacy, supporting WHO’s work through collaboration, providing strategic advice, and mobilizing resources.
Through her multifaceted efforts, Dr. Kerry seeks to strengthen the global response to climate change and ensure that health remains a central focus in all related discussions and actions.
Dr. Kerry brings invaluable expertise to her role, serving as the co-founder and CEO of Seed Global Health—an organization committed to health systems strengthening and the training of healthcare professionals.
Under her leadership, Seed has made significant strides, educating over 34,000 doctors, nurses, and midwives in seven countries, ultimately improving healthcare for more than 73 million people.
She has been a vocal advocate for integrating health-centered responses into climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts, highlighting the impact of climate change on human health and health systems.
Additionally, Dr. Kerry is actively supporting the COP28 Presidency in shaping the inaugural COP Day of Health and driving advocacy around climate change’s health implications, aiming for equitable and just climate action.
Expressing her honor and commitment, Dr. Kerry stated, “I am honored to serve as the WHO Director-General Special Envoy for Climate Change and Health.
“The climate crisis is a health crisis—urgent action is needed to mitigate and adapt against this complex challenge. I will work with WHO and its partners to drive awareness, develop solutions, and build consensus for action, ensuring a healthier future for everyone on this planet.”
This year holds particular significance for the intersection of climate change and health, with the announcement of the first-ever day dedicated to health during the COP28 Summit on December 3, 2023.
This crucial opportunity will underscore the importance of addressing climate change in relation to human health and reinforce the need for collaboration and coordinated efforts to safeguard the well-being of present and future generations.
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