Policy Brief by the German Youth Delegate to the 78th World Health Assembly

This policy brief was authored by Ahmet Bekisoglu in his position as German youth delegate to the 78th World Health Assembly. It does not reflect the official position of the German Federal Ministry of Health or the Global Health Hub Germany. As the Youth Delegate to the 78th World Health Assembly (WHA) he advocated for stronger youth engagement and a health-centred policy approach. His work focuses particularly on mental health and the health impacts of conflict and displacement.

Key messages of the policy brief

1. Young people and youth organisations are well-connected and politically engaged across a broad range of issues – this potential should be actively and strategically harnessed. 

2. Health is not a marginal topic – it influences and is influenced by all areas of policy. 

3. The integration of “Health in All Policies” must not remain a political buzzword but be consistently implemented to address global challenges such as the climate crisis, war, and social inequality. 

4. Mental health must be treated as a political priority in its own right – not only as a consequence of crises, but as a cornerstone of resilience, equity, and long-term public well-being. 

5. The Youth Delegate Programme is a first step in recognising youth perspectives on global health, but it must be further developed, institutionalised, and meaningfully integrated into policymaking. 

About the German Youth Delegate Programme

The German Youth Delegate Programme was launched as part of the Federal Government’s Strategy for Global Health and piloted in 2021. The programme for youths and young adults intends to provide insight into international organisations and processes, boost the interest in working in the public health or international field and promote networking with international parties.

Download the policy brief here 

Learn more about Youth Prespectives on Global Health of the Previous Years

Policy Brief by the German Youth Delegate to the 77th World Health Assembly

Policy Brief by the German Youth Delegate to the 76th World Health Assembly

Youth Consultations in April 2023 (only in German)