Item 12.5  - Primary Healthcare and Item 12.8 -  Report of the Expert Advisory Group on the WHO Global Code of Practice on the International Recruitment of Health Personnel. Norway.

STATEMENT

79^th World Health Assembly

18 - 23 May 2026

Norwegian Ministry of Health and Care Services

Item 12.5 Primary Healthcare og 12.8 Report of the Expert Advisory Group on the WHO Global Code of Practice on the International Recruitment of Health Personnel. Norway’s National Statement

Thank you chair.

Norway thanks the Secretariat for the reports.

I will start with agenda item 12.5;

Norway remains concerned about the slow global progress towards universal health coverage and supports the continued prioritisation of primary health care as the most effective pathway forward.

PHC must be integrated, spanning prevention, treatment and care across communicable and noncommunicable diseases, mental health and sexual and reproductive health and rights - with preparedness embedded in everyday care.

This shift needs to be more strongly reflected in our collective efforts, while recognizing that country specific PHC models require tailored approaches.

Turning to agenda item 12.8;

The EAG-report confirms that the WHO’s Global Code of Practice on International Recruitment of health personnel remains relevant and effective. Norway supports its recommendations.

We thank the Philippines, Germany, Pakistan and Bangladesh for tabling the resolution. Norway would like to join as a co-sponsor.

Thank you.