Pasteur Network and IVI convene high-level dialogue on strengthening clinical trial systems at WHA79

The Pasteur Network and the International Vaccine Institute (IVI) will convene “Catalyzing Global Collaboration to Strengthen Clinical Trials Systems” in Geneva on 19 May 2026, on the sidelines of the 79th World Health Assembly. The high-level dialogue will bring together health officials, policymakers, regulators, researchers, and other global health stakeholders to explore how more equitable and sustainable clinical trial capacity can be strengthened worldwide.

The event comes at a time of growing recognition that stronger clinical trial systems are essential to improving the quality, relevance, and equity of global health research. As highlighted by the World Health Organization and Member States through resolution WHA75.8, building effective clinical trial capacity is a critical component of more inclusive health research systems.

Despite carrying a substantial share of the global disease burden, low- and middle-income countries continue to host only a limited proportion of clinical trials. The IVI event page notes that Africa, for example, accounts for just 3% of clinical trials worldwide, contributing to important evidence gaps and limiting the effectiveness of health interventions for the populations most affected.

Against this backdrop, the event aims to create space for exchange on practical solutions, lessons learned, and strategic collaboration. Discussions will focus on progress, challenges, and good practices across LMIC clinical trial systems, while also exploring innovative approaches to strengthen regulation, governance, and clinical research infrastructure. The programme will also look at country experiences in building sustainable systems, as well as the partnerships and financing needed to expand research capacity over the long term.

By convening diverse stakeholders during WHA79, the Pasteur Network and IVI seek to help catalyze more coordinated action across the global clinical trials ecosystem. The broader ambition is to support research systems that are better aligned with public health needs and that ensure no country is left behind in the generation of evidence and access to effective interventions.

The event, titled Catalyzing Global Collaboration to Strengthen Clinical Trials Systems, will take place on Tuesday, 19 May 2026, from 14:00 to 16:00, with registration open from 13:30, at the Warwick Geneva Hotel, Switzerland. It is an in-person event, free and open to the public subject to prior registration, with a reception to follow.