The World Health Organization renewed its Science Council with 21 leading scientists and experts from diverse regions to advise on emerging technologies, scientific breakthroughs, and future health challenges.

The council serves as WHO’s principal external advisory body on high-priority scientific issues and breakthrough innovations with potential to transform health outcomes.

Members will provide strategic, independent scientific advice, help identify emerging health trends, risks, and opportunities, and keep WHO at the forefront of scientific advances influencing global health for decades ahead.

Its aim is to offer strategic, independent scientific guidance, anticipate high-impact advances, and shape health policy and action through foresight on emerging trends.

Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus underscored the goal of accelerating scientific discovery and translating advances into better health outcomes for people worldwide.

Notes to editors state that the 21 members serve in their personal capacities and that the council contributes to strategic foresight and trust in science and evidence-informed decision-making.

The appointments are part of WHO’s regular renewal process, aiming to strengthen the ability to identify transformative scientific developments and translate innovations into better health outcomes.

The 2026 World Health Day theme, “Together for health. Stand with science,” highlights science as the foundation for global health.

As AI, biotechnology, gene editing, and precision medicine accelerate, the Science Council is expected to help governments navigate opportunities and challenges.

The initiative aligns with WHO’s Transformation program, establishing the Science Division and Science Council to provide timely, evidence-based guidance amid rapid scientific progress.

The new council includes specialists in public health, epidemiology, biomedical research, health systems, ageing, engineering, precision medicine, and emerging technologies, with representation from all WHO regions and two youth members.

Two youth representatives were selected through the WHO Youth Council to bring youth perspectives into discussions shaping global health.