Why is IOSH in Japan?

That sentiment resonates deeply this week as IOSH takes part in a truly historic moment at Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan.

We’re here because we believe in the power of ideas – grounded in evidence, driven by values, and turned into action through collaboration. We believe that the future of work must be built on a foundation of health, safety and dignity. And at Expo, IOSH is helping to shape that future – together with partners, policymakers, professionals and global stakeholders.

Under the theme “Designing Future Society for Our Lives”, Expo 2025 offers a global platform to reimagine how societies function and flourish. It’s not only a moment to showcase innovation, it’s a call to embed human-centred values into designing tomorrow.

IOSH is proud to be a founding member of the Global Initiative on Safety, Health, and Well-being (GISHW). We’re helping to lead its four-day programme from 16 to 19 July. These events bring together perspectives from across sectors and continents to address the defining global challenges of our time. These include climate change, digital disruption, demographic shifts and social inequality.

I’m Vice Chair of the GISHW Executive Committee and Chair of the Working Group organising the first-ever World Assembly of OSH professionals and stakeholders. This means I’ve had the honour of working with experts and partners from across the world to co-create something lasting.

Here to build

The World Assembly, taking place on 16 July, is a defining moment for our profession. For the first time, a World Expo is hosting an international gathering of OSH experts and stakeholders. We’re coming together not just to talk, but to build. Together, we’ll develop a 2030 Roadmap for Action, rooted in eight expert-led workshops tackling real-world challenges. It’s practical, collaborative and ambitious – exactly what’s needed.

On 19 July, IOSH will host a high-level symposium on sustainable financing and investment in OSH. This session, endorsed by the ILO-led Global Coalition for Social Justice, will spotlight the crucial link between effective OSH systems and long-term economic and social outcomes. The fact is, delivering impact at scale requires more than intent. It needs resourcing, accountability and a seat at the table where decisions are made.

IOSH’s presence in Osaka isn’t ceremonial. It’s strategic. We’re here not just to participate, but to lead. We need to ensure that OSH is part of the conversation when futures are designed and priorities are set.

Whether you’re joining us in Osaka or following from afar, know that this World Assembly belongs to the global OSH community. The road ahead may be complex. But this moment is a reminder that when we come together – across borders, disciplines and perspectives – we can achieve something extraordinary.

And we’re just getting started.