WHO South-East Asia Region Invites Nominations for 2026 Public Health Champion Award

The WHO South-East Asia Region has opened nominations for the 2026 WHO South-East Asia Public Health Champion Award, recognizing individuals and institutions whose leadership and contributions have led to significant and sustained improvements in public health across the Region.

The award honours achievements and leadership that have transformed health systems, advanced equity, and strengthened resilience in communities across South-East Asia. It seeks to spotlight impactful work aligned with the strategic priorities of the WHO South-East Asia Region.

The award is open to individuals including public health professionals, academicians, activists and changemakers; and institutions such as non-governmental organizations, public sector entities, research institutions and health-care facilities, whose work has resulted in measurable and lasting public health gains in the Region.

Nominees should have demonstrated leadership and excellence in one or more of the following areas:

• Advocacy for key public health issues leading to sustained policy or programmatic action, particularly to address health inequities
• Capacity-building that strengthens national or regional health systems and improves health outcomes
• Health systems strengthening to improve quality, access, efficiency, and financial protection
• Innovation through affordable and impactful public health solutions
• Community engagement that empowers communities and promotes healthier behaviours

A screening committee comprising senior WHO officials will evaluate nominations based on impact and scalability, sustainability and equity, and innovation. Adherence to the WHO Framework of Engagement with non-State Actors (FENSA) will also be considered during the selection process.

Nominations can be submitted through the official application portal: Nomination Form for WHO South-East Asia Regional Award for Public Health Champion 2026

Key dates:

• 30 June 2026: Submission deadline
• 31 July 2026: Awardees notified

Awardees will receive a citation during the WHO Regional Committee Session in September 2026.

More information please visit Call for Nominations - 2026 WHO South-East Asia Public Health Champion Award