Seventy-Eighth World Health Assembly: Daily Update for May 26, 2025

Countries Approve a Landmark Resolution for a Lead-Free Future

In a significant step towards global health improvement, member states have adopted a landmark resolution aimed at phasing out lead and other hazardous chemicals. This decision is rooted in the alarming statistic that exposure to toxic chemicals and pollution is responsible for over 9 million premature deaths annually—equating to one in six deaths worldwide. Vulnerable populations, especially children, pregnant women, and communities in low- and middle-income countries, are disproportionately affected.

The Health Impacts of Toxic Chemicals

The resolution emphasizes urgent action to reduce exposure to dangerous chemicals, including lead, mercury, persistent organic pollutants, and endocrine disruptors. To tackle these challenges, member states are encouraged to integrate health considerations into environmental policies and improve waste management systems. This holistic approach addresses not only chemicals but also the growing concerns associated with plastics and electronic waste.

Implementing WHO’s Chemicals Roadmap

To facilitate the transition towards safer environments, countries have committed to implementing the World Health Organization’s (WHO) chemicals roadmap. This involves enhancing national capabilities and fostering global cooperation through various multilateral agreements, such as the Global Framework on Chemicals, the Minamata Convention on Mercury, and the Basel, Rotterdam, and Stockholm Conventions.

WHO’s Role in Lead Mitigation

The WHO will play a critical role in translating Resolution EB156(32) into a comprehensive global action plan on lead mitigation. This includes providing technical assistance and guidance to strengthen the health sector’s leadership and protect communities from preventable health risks tied to hazardous chemicals and pollution. By recognizing the health threats posed by these substances, member states are making decisive moves to advance health equity and contribute to sustainable development goals.

Member States Agree on a New Global Traditional Medicine Strategy for 2025-2034

In another landmark decision, member states have acknowledged the importance of traditional, complementary, and integrative medicine (TCIM) by adopting a global strategy for 2025-2034. This initiative aims to promote evidence-based practices in traditional medicine, ensuring that they are safe and effective for public health.

Establishing Evidence-Based Practices

A robust evidence base is crucial in legitimizing traditional medicine practices. Member states have emphasized the need for regulatory mechanisms that ensure the safety and quality of these treatments. Integrating TCIM into healthcare systems in a way that supports qualified practitioners is a critical aspect of this strategy.

Recognition of Indigenous Knowledge

The strategy explicitly acknowledges the role of indigenous knowledge and the rights of indigenous communities. By promoting environmental sustainability and biodiversity in the context of TCIM, the strategy aims to harmonize traditional practices with modern health care systems.

WHO’s Commitment to Implementation

WHO will support member states in strengthening the evidence base for TCIM, enhancing its safety and quality while facilitating its integration into health systems. Implementation and monitoring are crucial components, with WHO offering guidance and technical assistance as needed to ensure the strategy meets its goals.

World Prematurity Day Approved as a Mandated Global Health Campaign

In a response to the pressing issue of preterm births, member states have declared World Prematurity Day as an official WHO health campaign. This initiative acknowledges the urgent need for action in preventing preterm births and ensuring critical healthcare for prematurely born or small babies.

Understanding Preterm Births

Preterm births are defined as deliveries occurring before 37 weeks of pregnancy, leading to complications such as breathing difficulties, infections, and hypothermia. These complications remain the leading cause of death among children under five years old, with long-term health implications for survivors.

Investments in High-Impact Interventions

The resolution calls on countries to invest in high-impact interventions to improve outcomes for preterm infants. Initiatives such as specialized newborn care units, kangaroo mother care, and family support are essential for reducing mortality rates and enhancing quality of life.

Aligning with Global Health Strategies

World Prematurity Day is part of broader discussions surrounding the Global Strategy for Women’s, Children’s, and Adolescents’ Health (2016-2030), and is aligned with previous resolutions aimed at enhancing maternal and child health.

Member States Agree on Actions Addressing the Health Impacts of Nuclear War

A resolution titled "Effects of Nuclear War on Public Health" has gained approval from member states, signaling a commitment to address the catastrophic health risks associated with nuclear weapons. Proposed by several nations, including Burkina Faso and New Zealand, the resolution reinforces the principle that health is fundamental to peace and security.

The Urgency of Addressing Nuclear Threats

Recognizing the looming threat of nuclear conflict as an existential risk, the resolution outlines the pressing need to understand and mitigate the health and environmental impacts of nuclear war. It underscores the devastating consequences that such conflict would have on both immediate and long-term health outcomes.

WHO’s Role in Monitoring and Reporting

The resolution mandates the WHO Director-General to update past reports on nuclear warfare’s health implications and to collaborate with relevant stakeholders. A comprehensive report is expected by 2029, stressing the importance of preventing nuclear war for global health and survival.

Assembly to Review Substandard and Falsified Medical Products Report in 2026

Countries have approved an extension to finalize a report addressing the global health threats posed by substandard and falsified (SF) medical products. The final report is now set to be submitted at the Seventy-ninth World Health Assembly in 2026.

Challenges Posed by Substandard Medical Products

With an estimated one in ten medicines in low- and middle-income countries being substandard or falsified, the economic impact is staggering, with losses ranging between $75 to $200 billion annually. The rise in SF incidents, exacerbated by online distribution and weak regulatory systems, brings to light the critical need for robust solutions.

WHO’s Efforts in Strengthening Global Health Security

Established as a pivotal mechanism for addressing SF medical products, the WHO is committed to enhancing collaboration among countries. An evaluation from 2023 reaffirmed the mechanism’s relevance and highlighted the need for improvements in regional engagement and stakeholder collaboration.

Flags of Non-Member Observer States

Delegates have decided that flags of non-Member Observer States will be raised at the World Health Organization (WHO), although this action does not confer member state status. This decision particularly pertains to the Palestinian flag, referencing UN resolution 20.15 as a basis for its inclusion.

Considering the Withdrawal of a Member State

In an interesting development, a request has been made for the Executive Board to review the potential withdrawal of Argentina, with a report slated for submission to the Seventy-ninth World Health Assembly. This highlights ongoing political dynamics within the organization.