Advancing the Global Stroke Agenda at the United Nations Multistakeholder hearing on NCDs and Mental Health

05 May 2025

On Friday, May 2, Mia Grupper was representing the Global Stroke Action Coalition (GSAC)—convened by the World Stroke Organization—at the United Nations Multistakeholder Hearing on Noncommunicable Diseases (NCDs) and Mental Health, held in New York City.

This important event brought together a broad spectrum of stakeholders, including representatives from UN agencies, Member States, civil society, and the wider NCD and mental health communities. It marked a critical milestone on the road to the 4th UN High-Level Meeting (UNHLM) on NCDs and Mental Health, scheduled for September 2025 during the UN General Assembly.

On behalf of the GSAC, a clear and urgent statement was delivered: it is time for governments to take bold, strategic action on stroke. We called on Member States to prioritize stroke within their national health agendas by:

Integrating stroke into national NCD strategies
Developing comprehensive stroke action plans
Establishing sustainable funding mechanisms
Implementing robust monitoring and accountability systems
Involving stroke survivors and caregivers in the policy-making process

Access to the full GSAC statement

Stroke remains one of the world’s leading causes of death and disability, yet it continues to be under-prioritized in national and global health strategies. We have the tools, data, and interventions to prevent and manage stroke effectively—what we need now is political will and resource allocation.

As we look toward September, the focus must be on strengthening health systems to deliver proven solutions. This will require multisectoral collaboration, sustained investment, and an unwavering commitment to stroke prevention, care, and rehabilitation.

The energy and engagement at the UN hearing were deeply encouraging. Stakeholders from across sectors voiced strong support for action, and the co-facilitators of the political declaration were present to hear this input. The next step is the release of a zero draft of the declaration on May 14, followed by a two-week window for Member States to provide feedback.

We are optimistic that the momentum generated will translate into a strong, inclusive political declaration in September—one that includes clear targets, accountability mechanisms, and a focus on equity.

It’s time to shift policy makers mindset: investing in stroke prevention and care is not a cost—it is a critical investment in global health, equity, and sustainable development!!!

For more information about the Global Stroke Action Coalition, please visit Global Stroke Action Coalition | Unite for Stroke Prevention & Recovery | WSO Global Stroke Action Coalition