The CMS Model WHO Society is thrilled to host the CMS Model WHO 2026 in collaboration with the World Health Organization Regional Office for Europe (WHO Europe) and the United Nations Association Portugal (UNA Portugal) at the Católica Medical School (CMS) from 26–28 June 2026, in Lisbon, Portugal.
 
CMS Model WHO 2026 offers a highly accurate simulation of the World Health Assembly, bringing together university students from around the world to engage in global health diplomacy through the official United Nations consensus-based approach. Our partnership with United Nations Association Portugal, a member of the World Federation of United Nations Associations, ensures the adoption of authentic UN and World Health Organization (WHO) protocols and Rules of Procedure. Participants will also have the unique opportunity to see their work resonate beyond the simulation, with selected outputs shared directly with stakeholders within the WHO ecosystem.
This year’s conference theme, “Reframing the Global Response to Substance Use,” reflects one of the most pressing and complex public health challenges of our time. Substance use remains a leading cause of preventable mortality and societal harm, with alcohol alone responsible for approximately 3 million deaths annually worldwide, while the rapid proliferation of synthetic drugs continues to reshape global drug markets, driving overdose deaths and challenging regulatory and health systems. Within the European Region, these challenges are particularly acute, requiring evidence-based, coordinated, and forward-looking responses grounded in both public health and human rights.
 
To address this dual burden, the conference will feature two specialized WHO committees WHO - Europe and WHO - Crisis.