WHO Opens Applications for 2027 Review of Essential Medicines List

WHO has encouraged prospective applicants to carefully follow the updated “Instructions for Applicants”, which outline the required format and documentation.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has announced that the 26th meeting of its Expert Committee on the Selection and Use of Essential Medicines will take place from 3 to 7 May 2027 at its headquarters in Geneva. The meeting will focus on revising and updating the WHO Model Lists of Essential Medicines (EML) and the Essential Medicines List for Children (EMLc)—two of the most influential tools in global public health.

WHO has now opened the application window for submissions, with a deadline set for 6 November 2026 at 18:00 UTC.

The EML and EMLc are updated every two years through a rigorous and transparent process led by the Expert Committee. Each proposed medicine is evaluated based on evidence of effectiveness and safety, alongside broader considerations such as disease burden, cost-effectiveness, and feasibility of implementation across different health systems.

These lists play a critical role in shaping healthcare policy worldwide. They serve as a benchmark for countries to develop their own national essential medicines lists—guiding decisions on procurement, availability, and access. Today, more than 150 countries rely on WHO's model lists to inform their healthcare strategies and ensure that populations have access to the most necessary and cost-effective treatments.

The concept of essential medicines is central to achieving universal health coverage (UHC). By prioritising medicines that deliver the greatest public health impact, the lists help governments and healthcare providers maximise limited resources while improving patient outcomes.

WHO has encouraged prospective applicants to carefully follow the updated "Instructions for Applicants", which outline the required format and documentation. Early engagement with the EML Secretariat is strongly recommended to ensure submissions meet all technical and procedural requirements.

During the application period, the Secretariat will provide guidance, feedback, and support to applicants, helping strengthen the quality and completeness of submissions.

Final applications must be submitted in both PDF and Word formats via email to the EML Secretariat at: emlsecretariat@who.int. The same contact point can be used for any inquiries related to the application process or the Expert Committee meeting.

As global health challenges continue to evolve, the upcoming review offers an important opportunity for stakeholders to contribute to a list that directly influences medicine access and healthcare equity worldwide.