28
Jan

The International Health Policy Program Foundation (IHPP Foundation), established in Thailand in 2001, is celebrating its 25th anniversary in January 2026. For a quarter century, IHPP Foundation has been a cornerstone of health policy and systems research (HPSR) and advocacy, both in Thailand and globally. Starting its focus on health economics and financing, the organisation has since evolved greatly into burden of disease studies, health promotion and noncommunicable disease prevention, and human resources for health, and more. Our work has been instrumental in shaping health policies and health systems in Thailand in alignment with increasing global health complexities, including but not limited to, universal health coverage, sustainable development goals, and health diplomacy. 

In an ever-evolving global, regional, and national health landscape, IHPP Foundation has a diverse history of works that provide a unique opportunity and platform to reflect, acknowledge, and chart a course for the future. Additionally, as a key partner of the Prince Mahidol Award Conference (PMAC), the chance to bring together stakeholders and partners from the health policy and systems research network as part of a side meeting is invaluable for knowledge-sharing, strengthening and catalyzing collaboration, and capacity building and raising awareness for upcoming health researchers.

This side meeting aligns will all three sub-themes of PMAC 2026. 

Sub-Theme 1: Demographic Transitions, Social Equity, and Population Diversity

IHPP Foundation's work on social equity and health financing has long addressed health systems in the context of an aging population and changing social structures, including migrant populations - especially with universal health coverage and the promotion of primary health care. This side meeting will provide a platform to discuss past impactful works and potential policy innovations that better address Thailand’s diverse and evolving population health needs.

Sub-Theme 2: Demographic Shifts and Health System Transformation

IHPP Foundation has always advocated for whole-of-system approaches, addressing resilient health systems that can adapt in financially sustainable and accessible ways; works include, but are not limited to, tackling increases in NCDs, AMR, aging population health, and more. The side meeting provides a knowledge-sharing and prioritising platform between national and international partners and stakeholders to address these issues.

Sub-Theme 3: Governing Health for People and Planet: Geopolitics in Flux

IHPP Foundation's expertise in global health diplomacy and its role as a technical arm of Thailand's Ministry of Public Health places it at the nexus of geopolitics and health. The side meeting will be an ideal forum to discuss the governance challenges posed by conflict and dynamic geopolitics, as well as global health forces including climate change, gender equity and social inclusion, and emerging health technologies.