WHO/Europe to Host Leadership and Human Resources Management Course for Health Professionals from eastern Partnership countries
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The World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Office for Europe will host the fourth intake of it’s Leadership and Human Resources Management for Health course from November 24-28, 2025, in Copenhagen, Denmark. This training program is designed for leaders and managers from Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, the Republic of Moldova, and Ukraine, aiming to strengthen their health systems and workforce capabilities. The course is funded by the European Union through the “Supporting Health Resilience in the Eastern Partnership” project, operating under a multi-year agreement with the Directorate-General for Enlargement and eastern Neighborhood of the European Commission.
Background: The Eastern Partnership and Health System Resilience
The Eastern Partnership is a joint policy initiative between the European Union and six Eastern European partner countries: Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Moldova, Belarus, and Ukraine. The EU provides support to these countries through various programs,including initiatives focused on strengthening health systems. https://www.eeas.europa.eu/eastern-partnership_en
Recognizing the critical role of a well-trained and motivated health workforce, the EU is investing in programs like this course to enhance health resilience within the Eastern Partnership countries. Health resilience refers to the ability of health systems to prepare for, manage, and recover from shocks – including pandemics, economic crises, and conflicts – while continuing to provide essential health services.
Implementing the WHO European Framework for Action
A core focus of the course is the practical request of the WHO European Framework for Action on the health and care workforce 2023-2030. This framework, adopted by all 53 Member States of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe in October 2023, provides strategic guidance on key areas including:
* Recruitment and retention: Strategies to attract and retain qualified health workers.
* Workforce Supply: Strengthening the pipeline of future health professionals.
* Performance Optimization: Improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the health workforce.
* Effective Planning: Developing data-driven workforce plans.
* Enduring Investment: Ensuring long-term financial support for health systems.
Course Details and Participant Profile
Approximately 25 participants will attend the course, representing senior and middle managers with decision-making authority in crucial areas such as:
* Human Resources in Health
* Nursing
* Primary Health Care
* Social Assistance
* Rehabilitation
* Ministries of Education and labor (and other relevant sectors)
The program will employ a participatory learning approach, combining peer learning, expert presentations, and case-based exercises. participants will engage in discussions, group work, debates, and presentations. Prior to the in-person course, participants will complete virtual pre-course meetings utilizing country-specific materials. the week-long program will also include field visits to Danish healthcare facilities to provide practical insights into healthcare delivery models.
Learning Objectives and Expected Outcomes
The course aims to equip participants with the skills and knowledge to:
* Strengthen their strategic vision for health workforce development.
* Develop and implement effective health policies.
* Build consensus among stakeholders.
* promote good governance within their health systems.
* Advance progress towards Worldwide Health Coverage (UHC) in their respective countries. https://www.who.int/health-topics/universal-health-coverage
WHO Leadership and Expertise
The course will be led by WHO representatives and technical experts,alongside renowned speakers from WHO and other relevant organizations. This ensures participants benefit from the latest evidence-based practices and global perspectives in health workforce management.
This course represents a significant investment in the future of healthcare within the Eastern Partnership countries,fostering leadership and strengthening health systems to better serve their populations.Continued collaboration between the WHO, the EU, and participating countries will be crucial to achieving lasting improvements in health outcomes and building more resilient health systems for the future.