Sonia Sidhu, Member of Parliament for Brampton South and Chair of the North America Chapter of UNITE Parliamentarians Network for Global Health, represented Canada at the UNITE Global Summit 2026 in Manila, Philippines, joining parliamentarians, health experts, and policymakers from around the world to address some of the most pressing challenges in global health. The summit focused on advancing solutions related to health equity, immunization, digital health, climate resilience, and sustainable health financing.
Over two days of high-level discussions, MP Sidhu led conversations on strengthening immunization through parliamentary leadership and shared Canada’s experience in leveraging artificial intelligence to support diabetes prevention, improve disease management, and enhance predictive health care planning.
“As parliamentarians, we have a responsibility to champion policies that improve health outcomes and ensure equitable access to care,” said Sidhu. “The UNITE Global Summit provided an important opportunity to share Canadian perspectives and learn from international partners who are driving innovation and improving public health in their communities.”
The UNITE Global Summit is the flagship gathering of UNITE Parliamentarians Network for Global Health, bringing together legislators and global health leaders to develop evidence- based policies and strengthen international cooperation. This year’s summit convened participants from 72 countries, creating a unique forum for parliamentarians, health experts, civil society leaders, and international organizations to collaborate on solutions to shared global health challenges.
The 2026 summit theme, “Bridging the Health Divide: Political Courage to Invest,” emphasized the need for bold political leadership to address growing health inequities and build resilient health systems. As Chair of UNITE’s North America Chapter, Sidhu continues to play a leading role in advancing collaboration among parliamentarians and promoting science-based approaches to health policy. Her participation highlighted Canada’s commitment to innovation, public health, and international partnership in addressing emerging global challenges.
The summit was convened by Dr. Ricardo Baptista Leite, Founder and President of UNITE Parliamentarians Network for Global Health and a recognized global advocate for health diplomacy and evidence-based policymaking. Under his leadership, UNITE has grown into a network of more than 500 legislators from over 120 countries working to strengthen global health outcomes through parliamentary action.
“Global health challenges do not stop at borders,” added Sidhu. “By working together, sharing expertise, and investing in evidence-based solutions, we can build stronger health systems, foster public trust, and ensure that no community is left behind.”
