BACKGROUND:
Public health has a long history of working across borders to advance health outcomes. From initiatives such as smallpox eradication to COVID-19 response, public health diplomacy has been a critical approach for advancing global health security, equity, and trust. As international politics have evolved over the past few years, many aspects of global health have changed. Despite these changes, diplomacy remains a vital tool to support public health and collaborate across borders. Indeed, it may be more important now than ever as so much of the global health architecture is evolving. This organized session will discuss the future of public health diplomacy and the role of schools and programs of public health.

METHODS:
In 2025, McKee et al proposed nine options as potential ways forward for public health diplomacy1. Furthermore, Joshi et al examined the literature on health diplomacy education and identified gaps that may inform future training in public health diplomacy2. The panel will bring together experts in public health diplomacy to discuss ways forward for public health diplomacy education and practice.

RESULTS:
Speakers will highlight proactive initiatives to build capacity in public health diplomacy practice as well as examples of public health diplomacy education, while considering current challenges to the field. They will emphasize how public health diplomacy continues to be a critical skill for improving global public health issues.

CONCLUSIONS:
Public health diplomacy is essential to addressing transnational health challenges in the 21st century. This session positions diplomacy as a foundational element of effective public health practice, offering insights to inform policy, education, and leadership development worldwide.