TEHRAN – World Health Day 2026, observed every year on April 7, calls on people around the world to support science with the theme “Together for Health.” Stand with science. ”
This year’s theme shows that science lays the foundation to combat emerging health challenges such as microbial resistance, climate change, non-communicable diseases and pandemic risk, said Deputy Health Minister Alireza Raisi.
However, he noted that the 2026 theme will not be possible without ensuring health from politicization, sanctions and military aggression.
Raisi highlighted the importance of ensuring the safety and security of the health system in times of conflict, noting the recent violent attacks by the United States and Israel on Iran’s civilian and medical infrastructure, which led to the destruction of medical centers and the martyrdom of civilians and medical workers.
“We cannot claim to support science as long as access to medical care, critical equipment, and scientific interactions are used as leverage to achieve political ends, as long as military aggression threatens the security of health infrastructure and the lives of health workers,” the official added.
“Recently, we have witnessed widespread destruction of non-military forces by the enemy, air strikes on universities, scientific and research facilities, and health centers, resulting in the loss of many of our dear compatriots, including women, children, and health workers.
Today we announce that it will be possible to support science only if political and military pressure is no longer able to exert pressure on the health sector. Respect for science requires respect for the independence, security and well-being of each country,” Raisi further said.
The official further said that the scientific achievements of domestic researchers and knowledge exchange with the international community are the best way to achieve universal health coverage (UHC) and reduce unequal opportunities in accessing health services.
World Health Day 2026 kicks off a year-long campaign celebrating the power of scientific collaboration to protect the health of people, animals, plants and the planet.
The campaign focuses on a One Health approach, focusing on both the scientific results and the multilateral collaboration needed to translate evidence into action.
We invite people around the world to join us by celebrating scientific achievements, engaging with the evidence, and sharing personal stories about how science improves lives.
The campaign calls on governments, scientists, health professionals, partners and the public to support science by committing to evidence, facts and science-based guidance to protect health. Rebuilding trust in science and public health. Supporting science-driven solutions for a healthier future.