The World health Association (WHO) accepted a sculpture from the Republic of Croatia in a ceremony at its Geneva headquarters, celebrating health workers globally. The bronze sculpture, Shape of Space, by Croatian artist Ivan Kožarić, also recognizes dr Andrija Štampar, the first President of the World Health Assembly (WHA) and a key figure in public health history.

Croatia initiated the sculpture’s installation in 2021, during the International Year of Health and Care Workers, acknowledging their vital role during the COVID-19 pandemic.

WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus hailed the sculpture as a symbol of solidarity. “This donation reflects our shared commitment to honouring the courage and dedication of health workers, and to carrying forward the vision of Dr Štampar, who believed that health is a essential human right.”

The ceremony included Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenković, WHO leaders, and member State representatives. Prime Minister Plenković highlighted Dr Štampar’s impact and the sculpture’s message: “Open and flowing in form, Shape of Space embodies the compassion and protection that health workers provide. It stands here as a beacon of international cooperation and shared values.”

the sculpture, over 2.5 meters tall at the WHO’s main entrance, symbolizes health workers’ contributions and Croatia’s dedication to global health.

“Open and flowing in form, Shape of Space embodies the compassion and protection that health workers provide.”

Understanding Public Health and Global Collaboration