A visit to the World Health Organization, the United Nations, and the Permanent Mission of the Republic of Croatia gave students a unique insight into the field of health diplomacy and global health governance.
Students of the 4th generation of the University Postgraduate Specialist Programme "Management of Healthcare Organizations," jointly delivered by the Faculty of Economics, Business and Tourism and the School of Medicine at the University of Split, took part in professional field studies in Geneva as part of the "Health Diplomacy" course, led by Assoc. Prof. Nikica Daraboš, MD, PhD.
During their stay in Geneva, they visited the headquarters of the World Health Organization (WHO), where they had the opportunity to talk with leading experts and officials involved in shaping global health policy. Among them were Sigrid Kranawatter, Director of Governance at WHO headquarters, Dr. Garry Aslanyan, Manager at TDR (The Special Programme for Research and Training in Tropical Diseases), and Dr. Qudsia Huda, Head of the Disaster Risk Management and Resilience Unit within WHO's Health Emergencies Programme.
As part of the study visit, they also toured the United Nations (UN) headquarters, accompanied by Croatian diplomat Marko Stanović, who introduced them to the history, structure, and workings of this international organization. Particular emphasis was placed on understanding international decision-making processes and cooperation among states in addressing global challenges.
Through their visit to the Permanent Mission of the Republic of Croatia to the United Nations and other international organizations in Geneva, students gained insight into the work of Croatian diplomacy at the international level.
Assoc. Prof. Nikica Daraboš, MD, PhD, gave them a closer look at the role of Croatian representatives in shaping and implementing health-related policies, as well as the importance of the Republic of Croatia's active participation in the work of international organizations.
This professional field study enabled students to gain new knowledge and practical experience in the fields of health diplomacy, international relations, and healthcare system management.
Direct encounters with representatives of international organizations gave them valuable insight into contemporary challenges in global health and further enriched their educational experience.
Students and organizers extend special thanks to Assoc. Prof. Nikica Daraboš, MD, PhD, for the initiative, organization, and expert guidance during the study visit, as well as to all the hosts from the World Health Organization, the United Nations, and the Permanent Mission of the Republic of Croatia to the United Nations and other international organizations in Geneva, for their time, warm welcome, and the valuable professional experience they shared with the students. Their openness and willingness to share knowledge significantly contributed to the quality of this educational activity and to a better understanding of the challenges and opportunities of contemporary global health.