World Physiotherapy has welcomed the recent announcement by WHO, declaring 2021 as the international year of health and care workers.
In recognition of the dedication and sacrifice of millions of health and care workers at the forefront of the COVID-19 pandemic, member states at the virtual 73rd World Health Assembly unanimously designated 2021 as the international year of health and care workers.
Jonathon Kruger, World Physiotherapy chief executive officer, said: “World Physiotherapy congratulates WHO on designating 2021 in this way and recognising the value and contribution of health and care workers – particularly in light of the challenges many health and care workers have faced during the acute and long term response to COVID-19.
“Now, more than ever, the contribution of health workers as essential workers needs to be acknowledged. Health workers play a critical role in ensuring our health and urgent action is needed to meet the persistent challenges they face as frontline workers, particularly during the acute and long term response to COVID-19.
“In collaboration with our colleagues in the World Health Professions Alliance, we look forward to meeting with WHO to better understand the planned activities for the year and how they can support the development of the physiotherapy profession.
“World Physiotherapy looks forward to a commitment to better funding and substantial investment across the globe.”
In an earlier address to the World Health Assembly, Her Royal Highness Princess Muna of Jordan said applause without action was no longer acceptable and urged member states to invest in health, health systems and in health and care workers.
