## Italy‘s Exit from WHO: A Public Health Crisis in the Making?
Lamberto Bertolè, president of the Italian network of healthy cities WHO, has sounded the alarm over a proposed law that could see Italy withdraw from the World health Organization (WHO). He calls the proposal “a short-sighted choice, but a real attack on public health and the role of our country in the international context.” [1]
Bertolè emphasizes the WHO’s crucial role in global health protection, highlighting its success in tackling pandemics, coordinating vaccination campaigns, and responding to international health crises. He warns that abandoning the organization would isolate Italy, depriving it of vital resources, information, and tools necessary to safeguard citizens’ health security.
The impact on cities, especially, would be notable. As key players in implementing global health policies at the local level, Italian cities have benefited from the WHO’s programs and initiatives. The Italian network of healthy cities, a part of the WHO programme, has been instrumental in promoting health and well-being through prevention projects, combating inequalities, and encouraging healthy lifestyles. [2]
Bertolè stresses that Italy’s withdrawal from the WHO would jeopardize its ability to translate global health guidelines into concrete actions for its communities. He points to the WHO’s crucial role during the COVID-19 pandemic, providing not only data and guidelines but also vital support to national health systems.
In a heartfelt appeal, Bertolè urges the Italian government and legislators to reject the proposal and recognize the importance of international health cooperation. He reminds them that health is a fundamental right, enshrined in the Italian Constitution, and that the state has a responsibility to protect it as a collective interest. He calls on local administrators to join forces in defending public health and ensuring that Italy’s voice remains strong and influential in international forums where global health decisions are made. [3]
Italy’s Potential WHO Exit: A Public Health Crisis?
Time.news editor: Lamberto Bertolè, president of the Italian network of healthy cities WHO, has expressed serious concerns about a proposed law that could see Italy withdraw from the World Health Organization.Can you elaborate on his stance and the potential ramifications?
Lamberto Bertolè: Absolutely. I believe this proposed withdrawal represents a deeply concerning decision, one that I’d characterize as short-sighted and potentially damaging to Italy’s public health. The WHO plays a crucial role in global health protection, coordinating international responses to pandemics, facilitating vaccination campaigns, and providing vital resources and guidance to member states.
Time.news Editor: what specific concerns does Italy’s potential departure pose for the country’s health security?
Lamberto Bertolè: Leaving the WHO would isolate Italy on the global stage, depriving us of essential tools and knowledge needed to safeguard citizens’ health. Imagine facing a future pandemic or health crisis without access to WHO’s expertise, data, and collaborative networks. Moreover, cities like ours, deeply involved in implementing global health policies at a local level, have directly benefited from WHO programs and initiatives. Our network, as part of the WHO program, has successfully promoted health and well-being through prevention projects, tackled inequalities, and encouraged healthier lifestyles. Without this vital partnership, we risk losing critically important progress.
Time.news Editor: Could you elaborate on the WHO’s role during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly for Italy?
Lamberto Bertolè: The WHO’s role during COVID-19 was undeniably critical.Beyond providing crucial data and guidelines,they offered essential support to national health systems. Their expertise proved invaluable in navigating the complexities of this unprecedented crisis. Imagine facing such a challenge without this global collaboration.
Time.news Editor: Your appeal emphasizes international health cooperation. Why is this so crucial?
Lamberto Bertolè: Health, as enshrined in our Italian Constitution, is a basic right. protecting it requires collective action. Leaving the WHO weakens Italy’s ability to contribute to global health security, impacting not just our nation, but the entire world.International cooperation is essential to address shared health challenges effectively.
Time.news Editor: What message would you like to convey to the italian government and citizens regarding this proposed withdrawal?
Lamberto Bertolè: I urge our government and legislators to reject this proposal. We must recognize the immense value of international health cooperation. Let’s prioritize our collective health security and ensure Italy remains a strong and influential voice in shaping global health policies.