Erna Solberg takes on international leadership role in global health

Press release | Date: 02/06/2026 | Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Former Norwegian Prime Minister, Erna Solberg, has been elected Chair of the Board of the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria. The fund is a crucial partner for building robust health systems protecting us all.

'I would like to congratulate Erna Solberg on this important leadership role in global health. At a time when international cooperation is under pressure, strong leaders standing up for collaboration are particularly important. As Prime Minister from 2013 to 2021, Solberg played a key role in placing global health and sustainable development high on the international agenda. She is therefore well qualified for this position,' said Minister of International Development Åsmund Aukrust.

During Solberg's time in office, Norway helped establish the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI) to strengthen global preparedness for pandemics. Norway also provided substantial support to Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, to help ensure access to life-saving vaccines in low-income countries.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Solberg promoted international cooperation and equitable access to vaccines, including through support for global initiatives to improve access to vaccines, diagnostics and treatment. Solberg will serve as Chair of the Board for the period 2026-2029.

The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria works to combat these three major diseases worldwide. A key priority is to strengthen resilient health systems that can prevent, detect, and respond to emerging health crises.

'The ongoing Ebola outbreak depicts how vulnerable we remain to serious disease outbreaks and highlights the importance of rapid detection. Experience from global health cooperation shows that strong health systems are our best protection against health threats. No country can face these challenges alone,' said Mr Aukrust.

The Global Fund provides more than USD 4 billion annually in grants to around 100 countries most affected by the three diseases.
Norway's contribution to the Global Fund amounts to NOK 2 billion for the period 2026-2028.