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In a significant move to bolster public health leadership and workforce capacity across Europe, the World Health Organization (WHO) has officially designated the Department of International Health at Maastricht University’s Care and Public Health Research Institute as its new Collaborating Centre on Public Health Leadership and Workforce Development.
The formal designation, announced on June 12, 2025, marks the culmination of a partnership that began in 2014. The centre will now play a central role in generating robust evidence, developing practical tools, and implementing capacity-building programmes aimed at advancing the professionalization and competencies of the public health workforce throughout the WHO European Region. A key focus will be on strengthening public health leadership at both regional and national levels.
Dr. Natasha Azzopardi-Muscat, WHO/Europe’s Director of Country Health Policies and Systems, emphasized the importance of this milestone: “Advancing public health leadership and the professionalization of the public health workforce is a necessity. It ensures that we have the right people, in the right roles, with the right skills, to protect and promote health in a rapidly changing world. This is how we turn public health vision into lasting impact.”
Public health leadership is recognized as a cornerstone for achieving universal health coverage. Resilient health systems require leaders who can proactively assess new challenges, develop solutions, and support policy development while working collaboratively with all stakeholders. However, many countries continue to face significant barriers, including shortages of trained professionals, gaps in institutional mechanisms, and insufficient coordination across sectors and government levels.
Professor Katarzyna Czabanowska, Head of the new collaborating centre at Maastricht University, highlighted the broader impact: “A strong, respected, and supported public health workforce is the foundation of a healthier future – when we invest in those who protect our well-being, we empower communities, save lives, and build resilience that lasts for generations. By developing visionary leaders and a strategic, competent workforce equipped to navigate complex challenges and deliver high-quality achievements in public health, we not only respond to today’s crises but shape a healthier, more equitable tomorrow.”
The designation underscores WHO’s commitment to fostering leadership and capacity within the public health sector, ensuring that health systems are prepared to meet current and future challenges.
Disclaimer:
This article is based on information published by the World Health Organization (WHO) on June 12, 2025. The content reflects the official announcements and statements from WHO and Maastricht University as referenced. For the most up-to-date and detailed information, readers are encouraged to consult the original source on the WHO website.
