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 different regions face challenges of under resourced and poor quality health systems as well as those related to the effects of Climate Change and by the deteriorating social and political environment, such as the massive humanitarian crisis brought on by a rise in forced migrations. Every 3 to 5 years, PHM has a People’s Health Assembly, which will next be held in Bangladesh, in December 2018. The 4th People’s Health Assembly (PHA4) will draw on civil society organizations and networks, social movements, academia and other actors from around the globe. PHA4 will provide a unique space for strengthening solidarity, sharing experiences, mutual learning and joint strategizing for future actions; as well as civil society mobilization and policy dialogue for health equity and accountable national and global governance for health. This side event will strategise towards PHA4, taking place in Bangladesh in December 2018.