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Urge Inside Health| East Africa. Urge- DevWire
WHO convenes discussion on reproductive-health misinformation and digital platform governance
The World Health Organization is convening a discussion on sexual and reproductive health and rights misinformation and the governance of digital platforms, addressing growing concerns about how online information influences access to trusted health guidance.
Listed on WHO's official events calendar for 12 October 2026, the event focuses on the growing role of digital and social media platforms in providing sexual and reproductive health information, particularly where stigma and other barriers limit access to reliable services.
WHO notes that these platforms can help people find information that may otherwise be difficult to access. However, misinformation and disinformation can also spread rapidly online, creating challenges for people seeking accurate information about reproductive health and rights.
The issue has important implications for East Africa, where digital channels increasingly influence how young people, women and communities access health information. Online information can complement services provided by health workers, but misleading content can undermine informed decision-making and confidence in essential services.
Digital platform governance also raises questions about the responsibilities of technology companies, public-health institutions and governments in addressing harmful misinformation while maintaining access to legitimate health information.
The event provides a forum for examining these challenges and the role of evidence-based communication, digital policy and public-health partnerships.
The announcement is an event listing rather than evidence of a new policy or funding commitment. Its significance lies in bringing digital governance into discussions about access to sexual and reproductive healthcare.
Urge Inside Health| East Africa. Urge- DevWire
Date: 12 October 2026 | Global event | Location: Online / WHO headquarters, Geneva, Switzerland
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