In August 2020, the World Health Assembly passed a resolution calling for elimination of cervical cancer and adopting a strategy to make it happen.  It is a testament to the enthusiasm for this important goal that, even in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, countries around the world have affirmed their support for this important priority.

On November 17, following the close of the 73^rd World Health Assembly, WHO will mark this historic announcement and officially launch the elimination strategy.  from 2.30 p.m. until 4.15 p.m. Due to the pandemic, the event will be held virtually and hosted by WHO leadership. The governments of Australia, Botswana, Lesotho, Malawi, Nigeria and Rwanda will co-sponsor the event.

Women who have lived with cervical cancer from all regions of the world – including advocates and survivors who have fought the disease– will open the event. High-level speakers will join them, reflecting support from a broad coalition of partners and agencies.  In addition to conveying unity in the stand against this cancer, the messaging will continue to socialize the public to the goals and targets set by the strategy: by the year 2030, all countries can achieve 90% HPV vaccination coverage, 70% screening coverage, and 90% access to treatment for cervical pre-cancer and cancer, including access to palliative care.  Partners are invited to make announcements and pledges of support, to build momentum.

All around the world, companion events and launch activities will mark a day of action.  The launch will be more than just an announcement: the energy will be harnessed to actually fuel activities to implement the strategy itself.  From the Americas, to Europe, Africa, South Asia, and the Pacific, among others, local events will celebrate the launch.  Ministries of Health are organizing safe screening campaigns that day.  First ladies are mobilizing their organizations to promote cervical cancer activities.  Patient support groups plan to watch the launch together and host local discussions, and civil society organizations are planning media campaigns and advocacy activities.  Monuments and buildings will be illuminated in the color teal, the color of cervical cancer awareness.

Registration and official website