Q: I am interested in joining the SPI-DDH. How can I apply?

A: Organizations interested in becoming members of the SPI-DDH are required to carefully read the Terms of Reference. If the requirements are met, please apply using the application form.

Q: How will the SPI-DDH operate? How often does it meet?

A: Starting in June 2024, meetings of the SPI-DDH will take place every 6 months in a hybrid format. Representatives from European ministries of health will lead discussions and working groups. Proposed outputs will be decided by a majority vote of the working group members.

Q: Will the meetings be public?

A: The SPI-DDH will hold closed-door discussions, with recordings made available for internal use. Reports of the discussions will be available on the WHO/Europe website and shared with Member States. The Chatham House Rule will apply.

Q: Who participates in the SPI-DDH?

A: The Initiative is open to WHO/Europe Member States, intergovernmental, governmental and nongovernmental organizations, WHO collaborating centres for data and digital health, the private sector, academic institutions, patient advocacy groups, health and care professionals. WHO/Europe will not publish the names of participants or their organizations as part of the Initiative.

Q: What are SPI-DDH participants expected to contribute?

A: Participants are expected to contribute their time, knowledge and experience of the topics being addressed. This includes articulation of specific issues, as well as proposals for reaching solutions in line with the values of the SPI-DDH.

Q: Are participants obligated to attend all meetings of the SPI-DDH?

A: While there is no obligation to participate in all meetings, the value of discussions and outcomes will be significantly enhanced by regular participation of all members. The level of participation is entirely at each person’s discretion. Members can also participate only in the half-yearly hybrid meetings, without further time commitments, or additionally engage in the working groups.