WHO Officially Opens a New Country Office in Nicosia
On January 28, 2026, the World Health Organization officially opened its new Country Office in Nicosia. The opening makes it easier for the WHO and the Government of Cyprus to work together on public health issues. Officials said that the office showed a long-term commitment to working together on health issues in the region and around the world.
The opening ceremony brought together high-ranking Cypriot officials, international partners, and people from the health sector. The number of people who came showed how Cyprus’s role in international health governance is growing. The event made it clear that everyone is responsible for health security and resilience.
Source: WHO/Website
New Office Positions Cyprus as Interregional Health Hub
The WHO leadership stressed Cyprus’ important political and geographic position in Europe and the areas around it. The office’s job is to help both domestic health priorities and initiatives for cooperation across borders. This dual focus makes the Cyprus office stand out in WHO’s global network.
Officials said that the office was a new way of doing business. It combines duties for coordinating between regions with duties for supporting the nation. The goal of the approach is to improve efficiency and have a measurable effect on public health.
Partnership Aligns With Global and European Health Frameworks
WHO said that the office works under the 14th General Programme of Work. Activities also fit with the 2nd European Programme of Work, which runs from 2020 to 2030. These frameworks help with technical help and planning for the future.
The government of Cyprus said again that it was committed to shared health goals. Universal health coverage and a strong health system are still top national priorities. Working together makes sure that domestic reforms are in line with international standards.
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Health Security and Emergency Preparedness Remain Core Focus
Since it was founded in 2023, WHO has helped Cyprus get ready for emergencies. Technical help included incident command systems and response exercises based on simulations. National all-hazards risk assessments improved readiness skills.
The ongoing work includes making a National Action Plan for Health Security. Efforts combine evaluations led by public health organizations in Europe. The goal is to be ready for future health emergencies at all times.
Mental Health Reform Advances Through Technical Collaboration
WHO helped a lot with the development of Cyprus’ national mental health strategy. Now, implementation is all about integrating human rights and community-based care. Building capacity is still the most important part of reform success.
More than 45 mental health professionals went through WHO QualityRights training. Dignity, independence, and service delivery that includes everyone are important parts of the program. Ongoing guidance helps with a successful nationwide rollout.
Health System Sustainability and Climate Resilience Addressed
WHO held policy talks to make the health system more stable. The main topics of conversation were value-based purchasing, primary care delivery, and quality improvement. Technical assessments help the General Healthcare System make evidence-based changes.
The creation of a national Heat Health Action Plan is part of the climate and health collaboration. The project brings Cyprus in line with best practices around the world. More and more, health planning is taking climate resilience into account.
Emergency Services and Future Cooperation Strengthened
The Cyprus Ambulance Service is getting closer to getting WHO emergency medical team certification. This makes sure that everything is in line with international operational standards. Better emergency services make it easier for the country and regions to respond to emergencies.
WHO talked about working together in the future on noncommunicable diseases and prevention priorities. Diabetes, obesity, and smoking-related problems in children are still very important to us. The new office makes it easier for national stakeholders to get WHO help.
