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This decade has been marked by issues of international health safety and monitoring. The concept of emerging diseases has been well illustrated by the appearance of new infectious agents such as SARS or emerging or re-emerging influenza viruses, the political, social and economic consequences of which have sometimes been greater than the direct health impacts. These threats have speeded up the definition and implementation of the WHO’s new international health regulations. The fight against the three main pandemics (HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria) has achieved unprecedented size with the international mobilization of the wealthiest countries to fund programs in developing countries. The Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) have widened the health priority areas to include essential drugs and mother and children health programs. The fight against poverty and reducing health inequalities remain basic objectives that must guide future public health policies.