Patients Push for Inclusive Role in Global Climate and Health Action
The WPA welcomes the outcomes of the Fifth Global Conference on Climate and Health, held in Brasilia from 29 to 31 July 2025. The conference was described by WHO as a “springboard to build healthier, more resilient, and more equitable societies.”
WPA strongly supports the dual focus of the meeting: developing the Belém Health Action Plan for COP30 and advancing the Alliance for Transformative Action on Climate and Health (ATACH). These initiatives provide the coordinated global action urgently needed to address climate-related health risks and strengthen resilience.
The call from Dr Maria Neira, WHO’s outgoing Director of Environment, Climate Change and Health, to address inequalities through the Belém Health Action Plan is particularly important. WPA believes that patients, especially those from vulnerable and marginalized communities, must be at the center of this work.
“Climate change is already affecting patients worldwide, particularly those living with chronic diseases and in vulnerable settings. Patients are not only impacted but are also key partners in building resilience. At WPA, we are committed to ensuring that patient voices guide the development and implementation of climate-health policies so that no community is left behind.” Hussain Jafri, CEO, World Patients Alliance
WPA urges WHO, Member States, and partners to include patient representation in the Belém Health Action Plan, resource ATACH to engage patient organizations, and integrate patient-led insights into climate-health policy.
As the largest global patient umbrella organization, WPA stands ready to collaborate with global health leaders to ensure climate action truly meets the needs of patients and communities.