Photo: Virchow Foundation

The 2024 Virchow Prize has been awarded to Lucy Gilson and Johan Rockström for their holistic approach to safeguarding human and planetary health. In their scientific work, both prize winners underscore that health, the environment, the climate and social systems are closely linked and interdependent. In line with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, Gilson and Rockström are committed to a safer, more resilient and healthier world.

Lucy Gilson is Head of the Health Policy and Systems Division at Cape Town University and a Professor at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine. Her research acts as an important catalyst for more resilient and just structures in the healthcare system, including concrete suggestions on how medical care can be improved in practice.

Johan Rockström is, among other things, Director of the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research and Professor at Stockholm University. His work centres on the concept of planetary boundaries, defining the operating space regarding critical processes such as climate change or the loss of biodiversity with a view to the development needs of future generations.

SAGST Management Board member Johannes Stellmann expressed: “We are delighted that these two outstanding scientists have been honoured. Their systems-based perspective provides valuable insights into overcoming global challenges and ensuring patient-centred sustainability in healthcare.” Stellmann also noted the fruitful outcomes of Gilson’s and Rockström’s interdisciplinary research approaches.

SAGST has been committed to a holistic healthcare system for many years and has been a sponsoring partner of the Virchow Prize since 2023. The award, organised by the non-profit Virchow Foundation, is presented annually in Berlin. The award ceremony, under the high patronage of the President of the German Bundestag, Bärbel Bas, will take place on 12 October in the Rotes Rathaus.