BACKGROUND :

PHM is a global network bringing together grassroots health activists, civil society organizations and academic institutions from around the world, particularly from low and middle income countries. PHM has a presence in over 80 countries, with more than half being strong with functioning structures and planned activities. PHM also collaborates and draws its strength from affiliated global and regional networks. We are faced with a global health crisis that is characterized by inequities related to a range of social determinants of health and in access to health services within countries and between countries. Health and healthcare in many low and low middle income countries face challenges of under resourced and poor quality health systems. PHM was formed with the vision of Health for All, and embraced the spirit of the Alma Ata Declaration. The Steering Council is the highest decision making body of PHM – it sets the strategic direction for PHM. Over the last year we have had significant changes to the Steering Council, with a significant governance renewal, and the loss of two stalwarts of PHM. This Steering Council meeting will be used to develop a strategy for the forthcoming years: identify key focus areas and plans that ensure the continuity of the PHM vision of health for all (this will include exploring and debating the limitations and strengths of UHC and the position of PHM); identifying core areas for policy dialogue; plan for the next edition of Global Health Watch (under new coordination); re-affirm the steering council and set direction for the steering council.