Speakers

Dr Hanan Balkhy is Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean Region at the World Health Organization (WHO), where she leads efforts to strengthen health systems, improve health security, and advance equitable healthcare across more than 20 countries.

An infectious disease specialist by training, she previously served as WHO Assistant Director-General for Antimicrobial Resistance, leading global action on one of the most urgent public health threats. Prior to WHO, she held senior leadership roles at Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Health, driving national strategies in infection prevention and public health.

Dr Balkhy combines clinical expertise with global policy leadership, and is widely recognised for her work in building resilient, high-performing health systems.