About us

The High-level Policy Expert Group (HLPEG) was formed to provide strategic expert guidance to the SIDS high-level technical meeting and ministerial conference on NCD and mental health. The Group will have a special focus on channelling inputs into the preparatory process to the 4th UN High-level meeting on NCDs in 2025 based on the proceedings of the SIDS meetings.

The HLPEG will:

• Provide advice to WHO and the HLPEG Steering Committee in relation to NCD and mental health in SIDS and preparation of the SIDS meeting.
• Review the inputs and recommendations of the programme committee and related subcommittees and provide independent strategic expert guidance to the high-level technical meeting and ministerial conference.
• Provide advice with a specific focus on how the meetings and their outputs can inform the path towards the 4th UN High-level meeting on NCDs.
• Provide strategic advice on political advocacy for NCD and mental health in SIDS.

The Group is co-chaired by Sir George Alleyne, Director Emeritus of the Pan American Health Organization and Sir Colin Tukuitonga, Director-General of the Pacific Community, with support from a secretariat led by WHO. Nominated members of the Group comprise eminent regional and global leaders in public health representing the unique perspectives of SIDS Member States.