The completion of the Human Genome Project and subsequent advancements in high-throughput sequencing technologies have revolutionized the field of genomics. This has led to the identification of numerous gene-disease associations, enabling improved diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment of diseases. However, access to these benefits remains highly unequal, with low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) significantly lagging behind. This disparity is exacerbated by the underrepresentation of diverse populations in genomic research, leading to biases in genomic applications and health outcomes. The WHO Science Council, recognizing this inequity, published a roadmap to accelerate global access to genomic technologies. The current correspondence details the WHO's program of work built upon this roadmap, aiming to address the challenges and promote equitable access to human genomics for global health improvements.

The literature highlights significant disparities in access to and benefits from genomic technologies. Studies reveal a predominant focus on populations of European ancestry in genomic research (Fatumo et al., 2022; Pereira et al., 2021), leading to limited applicability and potential harm for other populations. The WHO Science Council's report (https://go.nature.com/3WQ3rM3) provided a framework to tackle these challenges, emphasizing the need for global collaboration, investment, and ethical considerations. Previous work by Abou Tayoun et al. (2023) also underscored the importance of addressing these gaps and promoting equitable access to genomic advancements. This program builds upon this existing literature and seeks to translate the recommendations into actionable initiatives.

The WHO's program of work utilizes a multi-pronged approach to achieve its goals of equitable access to genomics. This involves: (1) **Advocacy and Communication:** Developing communication materials (videos, posters, infographics) to promote awareness of the benefits of genomics among governments, decision-makers, funders, and the public. (2) **Economic Modeling:** Developing investment scenarios considering population-specific diseases, genetic diversity, and resource availability in different contexts. Example applications include newborn screening for thalassemia, carrier screening for recessive diseases, and pharmacogenomic testing. (3) **Collaboration and Partnership:** Connecting with organizations and stakeholders to map expertise, prevent duplication of efforts, and promote synergy in training programs, research, and integrating genomic counseling into health professional training. (4) **Addressing Implementation Challenges:** Exploring strategies to improve access to genomic equipment, reagents, and computational infrastructure in LMICs, potentially through engagement with the private sector. (5) **Regional Consultations:** Organizing consultations at WHO regions and sub-regions involving member states, local experts, and TAG-G members to tailor interventions to regional priorities. (6) **Data Governance:** Developing WHO principles for human genome data access, use, and sharing to ensure ethical, legal, and equitable practices. (7) **Equity Roadmap:** Creating an equity roadmap focusing on equitable research partnerships, workforce diversity, representation in genomic studies, and accessible genomic applications. The methodology emphasizes a collaborative, regionally-sensitive approach, grounded in local expertise and priorities.

While this correspondence primarily outlines a program of work rather than presenting empirical findings, several key elements emerge as crucial for equitable implementation of genomics. Firstly, the unequal distribution of genomic resources and expertise requires targeted interventions to strengthen capacity in LMICs. Secondly, the underrepresentation of diverse populations in genomics necessitates active efforts to promote inclusivity in research and application. Thirdly, the economic considerations of implementing genomic technologies necessitate careful planning and investment strategies tailored to specific contexts and health systems. Finally, robust ethical and governance frameworks are critical to ensure responsible data management and equitable access to the benefits of genomics. The program aims to address these challenges through advocacy, collaboration, capacity building, and ethical guidelines.

The WHO's genomics program of work directly addresses the pressing need for equitable access to the benefits of human genomics. By emphasizing a collaborative, regionally-tailored approach, it acknowledges the diverse contexts and priorities of different countries. The inclusion of economic modeling and engagement with the private sector tackles practical implementation hurdles. The focus on ethical considerations and data governance is crucial for building trust and ensuring responsible use of genomic information. This program's success will depend on the commitment of governments, researchers, healthcare providers, and communities worldwide. The program’s focus on advocacy, communication, and collaboration represents a significant step towards bridging the current global disparities in genomic access and ensuring that the benefits of this transformative field reach all populations.

The WHO's genomics program of work provides a comprehensive framework for equitable implementation of human genomics globally. It addresses crucial challenges related to access, representation, and ethical considerations. The success of this program will depend on strong collaboration among diverse stakeholders, substantial investments, and a commitment to addressing existing health inequalities. Future research should focus on evaluating the program's impact and adapting strategies to meet evolving needs and emerging technologies.

The program’s success relies heavily on the commitment and cooperation of diverse stakeholders, including governments, funding agencies, and local communities. The effectiveness of communication and advocacy efforts will be crucial in shaping perceptions and driving adoption. The successful implementation of the equity roadmap requires continuous monitoring and evaluation to ensure ongoing relevance and impact. Finally, the evolving nature of genomic technologies and related ethical considerations demands ongoing adaptation and flexibility in the program's implementation.