Development of metrics, criteria and processes for the validation of tuberculosis elimination: consultation report, Istanbul, Türkiye, on 14-15 December 2023

This consultation report documents the outcomes of a WHO stakeholder meeting held in Istanbul, Türkiye, on 14–15 December 2023 to support the development of metrics, criteria and standardized processes for the validation of tuberculosis (TB) elimination. Convened as part of WHO’s efforts to advance the End TB Strategy and the long-term goal of eliminating TB as a global public health threat, the consultation brought together experts, policy-makers, civil society representatives and WHO staff to discuss harmonized definitions, indicators, governance structures and validation pathways. Participants reviewed epidemiological and programmatic metrics, surveillance requirements, governance arrangements and methodological considerations for monitoring progress towards elimination in diverse settings, including low-incidence countries and priority populations.

The report summarizes discussions on proposed indicators such as TB incidence, mortality, drug-resistant TB, paediatric TB and measures related to vulnerable populations, as well as considerations for sub-national elimination initiatives. It also examines requirements for surveillance systems, certification and maintenance of elimination status, and presents country experiences from Cuba, the Islamic Republic of Iran, Oman and the United Kingdom. The consultation represents the first stage of a broader process that will inform the forthcoming WHO TB Elimination Framework and Operational Guide, intended to guide countries in validating and sustaining progress towards TB elimination.