The newly established Technical Advisory Group on Genomics (TAG-G) held its first meeting, in Geneva on October 5-6.
The TAG-G is composed of experts acting in their personal capacity, from various technical areas relevant to genomics, and from all WHO regions. The meeting was an opportunity for the TAG-G members to meet in person for the first time, to discuss with colleagues from relevant departments at WHO in Geneva and regional offices, and to share their perspectives and visions on the work ahead. During the meeting, Professor Iscia Lopes-Cendes was formally appointed as the Group Chair for the first term.
In its capacity as an advisory body to the WHO Secretariat, the TA-G will have the following functions, as per its terms of reference:
- Provide technical guidance on activities to accelerate access to genomics technologies for global health;
- Recommend priority activities in order to accelerate access to genomics technologies for global health, including promotion and advocacy in addition to technical activities;
- Contribute to efforts in convening discussions to develop genomics-related guidance and reports;
- Bring attention to regional and sub-regional opportunities and experiences in genomics;
- Contribute to assessing on progress in accelerating access to genomics for global health.
The group decided to form working groups around specific focus themes relevant to genomics: Data sharing; Equity; Economics; Engagement with private sector; Workforce capacity; Communication & advocacy.
The TAG-G agreed to meet 2-3 times a year, at least once in person.
