Prof. Afzal Javed, President, WPA, gives his New Year Message and shares the WPA 2022 Annual Report
Dear Friends,
Greetings and Happy New Year from World Psychiatric Association (WPA)!
Sadly, 2022 has been equally challenging. WPA, as everyone, has been severely impacted by the after-effects of the pandemic, the war in Ukraine and the consequential cost of living crisis. All of our stakeholders and components (Committees, Sections, Board, members, Member Societies, and staff etc.) have had to adapt their activities, learn to work in new ways and seek innovative ways to generate funds. Throughout it all, WPA remained committed to its cause and has globally supported mental health topics around the world
As such, I am delighted to share with you some of the work that WPA has been able to complete during 2022. Thanks to the Executive Committee, Council and Zonal representatives for their continuous support and dedication to keep WPA’s work as a priority in their personal and professional preferences. WPA components including our Member Societies, Affiliated Associations, Scientific Sections and 2020-23 Action Plan Working Groups were exceptionally great in keeping the momentum for their international work.
We have summarised some of our outstanding work that we have been able to complete during 2022 in our WPA Annual Report, which you can read here.
When thinking about my final year of presidency, I wish all of us much strength as we continue to face challenges following the pandemic and Ukraine conflict, and their consequential impact on mental health. I am always motivated and inspired by the commitment and hard work I see from my fellow professionals when dealing with such difficult situations. I look forward with enthusiasm and confidence, convinced that we will be able to transform new challenges into opportunities and fulfil the WPA’s triennium’s goals. Thank you all for the ongoing support. Let's shape the future of psychiatry and mental health together.
Prof. Afzal Javed
President, World Psychiatric Association
Author: Prof. Afzal Javed, President, WPA