This publication presents the findings of a global horizon scan on emerging technologies and trends relevant to global public health conducted in 2020 and 2021. We identified 15 new and emerging technologies and scientific advances that may have a significant impact on global health over the next two decades. WHO strives to remain “ahead of the curve” in relevant areas of research, science and technology in order to proactively identify, anticipate and shape issues that hold promise for prevention, diagnosis and treatment. The Global Health Foresight function was established in the WHO Science Division for this purpose and to assist Member States in building “futures thinking” into their strategic health planning.
The horizon scan was organized by the Emerging Technologies, Research Prioritisation and Support Unit of the Department, in particular by Luke Kemp (consultant), Kai Ilchmann, Soatiana Rajatonirina and Anna Laura Ross.
