disaster
Technical Advisory Group sets priorities and benchmarks to end polio in Afghanistan and Pakistan
By Global Polio Eradication Initiative at ReliefWeb
· June 10, 2026
· 5 min read
Countries: Afghanistan, Pakistan . Meeting virtually on 13–14 May 2026, the independent body of global experts reviewed progress, challenges and operational plans across the world’s last two polio-endemic countries. The TAG noted that the global eradication effort has entered a decisive phase, with
Key takeaway The TAG also established a series of epidemiological milestones for September 2026, December 2026 and June 2027 to help measure progress in the remaining transmission zones and guide programme action over the coming year.
Why this matters
The Technical Advisory Group's establishment of epidemiological milestones for the next year underscores the need for sustained effort in Afghanistan and Pakistan to eradicate polio. With the global eradication effort entering a decisive phase, the progress made in reducing the geographical spread of the virus is notable, particularly in Afghanistan's East Region and parts of Pakistan. The commitment of governments, frontline workers, and partners has been crucial in suppressing local virus circulation. However, the continued transmission in high-risk areas highlights the challenges that remain. The TAG's emphasis on sustained programme intensity and high-quality implementation is critical, as declines in cases and environmental detections may not necessarily indicate the end of the outbreak. As global health financing faces growing pressure, the support of donors and partners will be essential in maintaining the momentum of the eradication initiative, ultimately determining the success of efforts to stop polio transmission in these last two endemic countries.
About this story
Original reporting by ReliefWeb . Christgiving surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
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Category: disaster ·
Published: June 10, 2026 ·
Source: ReliefWeb ·
Reading time: 5 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? Countries: Afghanistan, Pakistan . Meeting virtually on 13–14 May 2026, the independent body of global experts reviewed progress, challenges and operational plans across the world’s last two polio-endemic countries. The TAG noted that the global eradication effort has entered a decisive phase, with
When was this published? This article was first published on June 10, 2026 by ReliefWeb and curated for Christgiving readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Global Polio Eradication Initiative at ReliefWeb. To learn more about how Christgiving selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
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