UN Zero Draft Declaration on NCDs and Mental Health
The WPA acknowledges the release of the Zero Draft of the Political Declaration for the Fourth High-Level Meeting of the UN General Assembly on the Prevention and Control of Noncommunicable Diseases (NCDs) and the Promotion of Mental Health and Well-being. This draft sets the stage for global negotiations ahead of the meeting scheduled for 24 September 2025 in New York.
The Zero Draft outlines ambitious global targets, including reducing tobacco use by 150 million people, ensuring 150 million more individuals have controlled hypertension, and providing 150 million additional people with access to mental health care by 2030. It also proposes that 80% of public primary healthcare facilities offer uninterrupted access to essential medicines and technologies for NCDs and mental health conditions at affordable prices.
While the WPA commends these goals, it emphasizes the necessity of integrating patient voices and experiences into the development and implementation of health policies. Meaningful patient engagement ensures that healthcare systems are responsive to the actual needs of those they serve.
The WPA urges Member States to:
• Prioritize patient-centered care in all health initiatives.
• Ensure equitable access to healthcare services for all populations.
• Allocate sufficient resources to support sustainable health systems.
The WPA looks forward to active participation in the upcoming consultations and remains committed to advocating for the inclusion of patient perspectives in global health decision-making processes.
For more information on the Zero Draft and the upcoming High-Level Meeting, please visit the World Health Organization.