WPA Welcomes Historic Resolution on Social Connection as a Global Public Health Priority
The WPA applauds the historic resolution adopted by the Seventy-eighth World Health Assembly 2025 that recognizes the vital role of social connection in health and well-being for people of all ages.
Key Highlights from the Resolution:
• Member States unanimously recognized social connection, the ways people relate to and interact with others as a public health priority
• The resolution underscores that social connection is linked to improved health outcomes, longer life expectancy, and healthier behaviors
• A lack of social connection is associated with increased risks of cardiovascular disease, mental health conditions, dementia, and other types of cognitive decline
• The resolution highlights that the impact of social disconnection extends beyond individuals to communities and societies
WPA’s Perspective:
• Social isolation and loneliness have become increasingly pressing public health concerns, especially in the context of rapid technological change and shifting social structures
• Patients living with chronic diseases, disabilities, and mental health conditions are often at greater risk of social isolation and loneliness
• Quality social connection can help prevent loneliness, reduce stigma, and improve the quality of life for patients across the life course
The Resolution Calls on Member States To:
• Develop and implement evidence-based policies, programs, and strategies that raise awareness and promote social connection for mental and physical health
• Integrate social connection as a key determinant of health in national health plans
• Strengthen community-based initiatives that foster social interaction, belonging, and support networks
WHO’s Role:
• Integrate social connection into its public health agenda
• Provide technical assistance and capacity-building support to Member States
• Launch the “Knot Alone” campaign to promote social connection for better health
• Report on the outcomes of the WHO Commission on Social Connection and the implementation of the resolution at the World Health Assembly in 2027, with additional reports in 2029 and 2031
WPA Calls For:
• Prioritizing social connection in health systems and policies to improve patient outcomes and well-being
• Collaborative efforts among governments, health systems, patient organizations, and communities to develop inclusive and culturally relevant approaches to social connection
• Active involvement of patients and their families in designing, implementing, and evaluating social connection initiatives
WPA Stands Ready:
• To work with WHO, Member States, and civil society to advance policies and actions that strengthen social connection
• To amplify the voices of patients who experience social isolation and advocate for their needs in national and global health agendas
The WPA celebrates this important step toward building more compassionate, connected, and patient-centered health systems that leave no one behind.