Health Systems Strengthening

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Health systems strengthening (HSS) has been a longstanding priority for German development cooperation.

To rise to current and emerging challenges – ranging from climate change to pandemics, antimicrobial resistance and a steady increase in the prevalence of non-communicable diseases – health systems need to be guided by strong plans and evidence-based policies and backed by adequate funding, trained and motivated health workers, a well-maintained infrastructure and a reliable supply of medicines and technologies. 

German development cooperation promotes a comprehensive approach to health systems strengthening that is aligned with partner countries’ national priorities. It provides its support at three levels:

• Globally, Germany contributes to coordinated global health system strengthening efforts
• Multilaterally, it promotes health systems strengthening as priority e.g. in Global Fund processes
• At partner country level, it supports governments in strengthening health systems and in moving forward on their paths towards UHC

What does this look like in practice? The articles, studies, podcasts and events assembled on this page illustrate how Germany supports health systems strengthening.