Sunday, July 13, 2025

WHO told: Protect global health based on science, not ideology

THE Coalition of Asia Pacific Tobacco Harm Reduction Advocates (CAPHRA), a tobacco harm reduction advocacy group, has called on the World Health Organization (WHO) to concentrate on its core mandate – to protect global health.

In a statement, CAPHRA said it is imperative for the WHO to shield itself from any undue influences from different entities and zero in on science-based policies.

“It’s time to hold the WHO to its mandate and core mission of protecting global health based on science, not ideology,” said CAPHRA Executive Coordinator Nancy Loucas.

“(WHO must adopt policies) that are inclusive of all stakeholders, without judgment or prejudice,” she added.

CAPHRA issued the statement as it expressed concerns over recent accusations of corruption and mismanagement in the Asia-Pacific region as well as reports of undue influence from a charity organization funded by US billionaire Michael Bloomberg.

“The push from Bloomberg Philanthropies and the WHO represents a form of regulatory colonialism, wherein foreign entities dictate policies without considering the unique challenges of individual countries,” said CAPHRA.

Given such allegations, the advocacy group said the Philippines must also have the initiative to protect itself from being influenced in its policymaking, particularly in having less harmful alternatives to cigarettes.

“It is crucial that the Philippines assert its sovereignty against Bloomberg’s influence and advocate for its own policies. This ensures that smokers who do not quit will have access to less harmful alternatives,” said Loucas.

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