Gathering in Tokyo, Executive Board members reflected on the shifting global health landscape and aligned on the urgent steps needed to protect access to lifesaving health products at a time of growing pressure and constrained resources.
As the world navigates geopolitical shifts, tighter development financing, and the growing effects of climate change, needs in many countries are increasing faster than the world’s ability to keep pace. These pressures risk putting essential health products further out of reach for the people who need them most. In this context, Unitaid’s catalytic role remains as vital as ever – advancing innovations, shaping markets, and accelerating solutions for the people and communities who face the greatest barriers.
Japan provided an important setting for this year’s meeting. As a country with a longstanding commitment to universal health coverage and a strong record of global health cooperation, Japan’s engagement offered an opportunity for constructive dialogue on how innovation and equitable access can be better aligned. A Partners’ Forum held alongside the Board session brought together Japanese institutions, industry representatives, and civil society organizations to explore areas of collaboration and shared priorities relevant to today’s global challenges.
“Unitaid is vital in accelerating access to lifesaving health innovations, and we are proud to support this work through policy leadership and partnerships with Japanese industry, government, academia and civil society,” said State Minister for Foreign Affairs Kunimitsu Ayano. “We will continue working with Unitaid and other global health partners to advance universal health coverage, strengthen human security, and ensure essential health services reach those who need them most.”
Throughout the meeting, the Board acknowledged Unitaid’s achievements over a complex year. Particular emphasis was placed on progress in securing a $40 per person per year pricing agreement on generic lenacapavir – a long-acting HIV prevention option with potential to reshape prevention efforts globally – alongside advances in maternal and newborn health, cervical cancer prevention, oxygen access, and the continued growth of regional manufacturing and climate-resilient health products. These diverse areas of work reflect Unitaid’s ability to respond to urgent health needs while maintaining a strong pipeline of future-oriented solutions.
The session also marked an important governance transition. This was the final Board meeting chaired by Marisol Touraine, whose leadership has helped strengthen Unitaid’s governance, enhance its visibility, and guide the organization through an exceptionally turbulent period for global health. Her tenure has been characterized by clarity of purpose, steady stewardship during the COVID-19 pandemic, and a strong commitment to ensuring Unitaid’s work remains aligned with the needs of countries and communities. The Executive Board expressed its gratitude to Mrs. Touraine for her outstanding leadership and unwavering commitment since 2019.
She has also been a powerful advocate for women’s health, elevating this priority across Unitaid’s portfolio and on the global stage, and was recognized by the World Economic Forum as a Women’s Health Champion for her contributions.
“Guiding Unitaid’s Executive Board through a period of global uncertainty has reinforced my belief in this organization’s very unique role and its capacity to deliver impact where it matters most,” said Board Chair Marisol Touraine. “Our work over these years demonstrates that innovation and equity can go hand-in-hand. I am confident that Unitaid will continue to rise to the challenges ahead with determination, partnership and purpose.”
Earlier this year, Board members selected French Ambassador for Global Health Anne-Claire Amprou as the incoming Chair, who will assume her role at the beginning of 2026, ensuring continuity as the organization enters a decisive phase in the delivery of its 2023–2027 Strategy.
In its discussions, the Board underscored the need for agility as the global health architecture continues to shift. The recently completed mid-term review confirmed that Unitaid is progressing well toward its strategic objectives while managing mounting external pressures, and it reaffirmed the relevance of the organization’s strategic initiatives amid today’s evolving landscape. Board members also welcomed the progress Unitaid has made in advancing co-creation with governments, regional bodies, and civil society, helping ensure that innovations are embedded within national systems and guided by local priorities.
“This year has reminded us how quickly the world can change, but also how essential our work remains. The Board’s discussions confirmed that our direction is sound while underscoring the need for continued agility,” said Dr. Philippe Duneton “We are delivering results from HIV prevention to maternal health because we stay focused on what matters: removing barriers and helping countries integrate innovations sustainably. That is the path we will continue to follow.”
The Board also recognized that resource constraints pose a real challenge across the global health sector. In response, Unitaid is launching a next generation financing workstream to explore new avenues for diversified and sustainable funding, including philanthropic mechanisms, development bank co-investment models, and results-based financing approaches. While the environment is undoubtedly difficult, the organization is acting decisively to protect its ability to deliver high-impact solutions.
As the Board concluded its meeting in Tokyo, members expressed confidence in Unitaid’s direction and preparedness for the years ahead. With strong partnerships, a clear strategic focus, and a demonstrated capacity to adapt, Unitaid enters 2026 ready to advance its mission and continue driving equitable access to innovation for the people and communities who need it most.