4097 (2026). Hon Dr Ayesha Verrall to the Minister of Health

4097 (2026). Hon Dr Ayesha Verrall to the Minister of Health: What direct benefits to New Zealand’s public health system, if any, does the Minister consider arise from membership of the World Health Organization?

Hon Simeon Brown: I consider that membership of the World Health Organization can deliver benefits to New Zealand, including access to technical guidance and evidence to inform health policy, participation in international disease surveillance and early warning systems, opportunities to engage with global experts and share knowledge, and the ability for New Zealand to contribute to global health governance and shape international health priorities relevant to New Zealand and the Pacific.