A HUNDRED YEARS OF THE SERBIAN INSTITUTE OF PUBLIC HEALTH MILAN JOVANOVIĆ BATUT: A REVIEW OF CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES FOR ADVANCING GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH NETWORKS

Abstract

The Serbian Institute of Public Health "Milan Jovanović Batut" serves as the cornerstone of public health in Serbia. This year, the Institute is celebrating its centennial, providing a unique opportunity for reflection on its impact and roles over the decades. This article focuses on a review of the Institute's activities and an analysis of the structure of public health institution networks globally, in light of the hundred-year jubilee. Understanding how the Institute fits into the broader picture of public health will help identify key areas for future development and improvement. The aim of this paper is to provide an overview of the key activities and structure of the Serbian Institute of Public Health "Milan Jovanović Batut" over the past hundred years and to compare these activities with global practices and networks in public health. This review will assist in understanding the Institute's impact and identifying directions for future improvement and collaboration with international institutions. The methodology of this article consists of analyzing available literature, including historical data, annual reports, and relevant scientific papers. Additionally, a comparative analysis of global models and practices in public health was conducted. The review of international institutions and their networks allowed for a comparison with the work of the Institute and the identification of key trends and challenges. Results show that the Serbian Institute of Public Health "Milan Jovanović Batut" has played a significant role in the development and enhancement of public health in Serbia. Throughout its history, the Institute has been a key player in disease prevention and control, as well as in the education and training of healthcare workers. Global trends in public health indicate the need for greater integration and collaboration among various institutions. Networks of global organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and various regional agencies increasingly emphasize the importance of coordination and joint efforts in responding to global health challenges. We conclude that the Institute for Public Health "Milan Jovanović Batut" plays a crucial role in public health in Serbia. However, as global trends indicate a growing need for integration and collaboration, it is essential for the Institute to continue to develop and strengthen its international connections. Enhancing the network of institutions and strengthening international cooperation are key to successfully addressing future challenges in public health. Future work should focus on strengthening these aspects to preserve and enhance public health protection.