31/01/25
News
We are pleased to announce that our Director, Professor Karl Blanchet, as Co-Chair of the Global Health Board at the World Humanitarian Forum (WHF). He will share this leadership role with Petra Khoury of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC). Their appointment comes at a critical time when global health challenges are increasingly intertwined with humanitarian crises, requiring coordinated efforts, innovative solutions, and evidence-based strategies. The Global Health Board will play a vital role in shaping health responses in humanitarian contexts, ensuring that research and policy align with the urgent needs of affected populations.
This appointment underscores the Centre’s ongoing commitment to bridging research and practice in humanitarian health and contributing to global health equity through evidence-based approaches and strategic partnerships.
Strengthening Leadership in Humanitarian Health
The WHF Global Health Board addresses some of the world’s most pressing health challenges in humanitarian contexts. As a leading expert in humanitarian health systems, Professor Blanchet has dedicated his career to research and solutions in armed conflicts, forced displacement, and fragile health systems. His extensive work has supported humanitarian organisations and policymakers in improving healthcare delivery in some of the most complex environments.
Petra Khoury, an expert in health systems strengthening, policy development, and humanitarian health initiatives, brings a wealth of experience to the role. Her leadership aligns with WHF’s mission to drive innovation and impactful solutions in the humanitarian sector.
A Strategic Role in the Lead-Up to the World Humanitarian Summit 2.0
WHF’s CEO, Ms. Feraye Ozfescioglu, expressed enthusiasm about the new co-chairs, highlighting their role in shaping discussions for the World Humanitarian Summit 2.0:
“We are delighted to welcome Petra Khoury and Prof. Karl Blanchet as co-chairs of the Global Health Board at this critical time. Their combined expertise and leadership will be instrumental in tackling health inequities and fostering innovation in global health.”
This appointment reflects WHF’s broader commitment to fostering transformative collaborations and advancing practical solutions to pressing global health issues.
Advancing the Centre’s Mission
As a hub for teaching, research, and dialogue in humanitarian action, the Geneva Centre of Humanitarian Studies continues to engage with global initiatives shaping the future of humanitarian response. Professor Blanchet’s appointment highlights the Centre’s role in ensuring that academic expertise informs real-world policy and practice.
We look forward to the impactful contributions of the WHF Global Health Board under this new leadership and remain committed to supporting evidence-driven solutions to improve health outcomes in crisis contexts.