Stroke Advocacy Takes Centre Stage at the 78th World Health Assembly

02 Jun 2025

Stroke Advocacy Takes Centre Stage at the 78th World Health Assembly

Every year, global health leaders convene at the World Health Assembly (WHA)—the decision-making body of the World Health Organization (WHO)—to shape the future of global public health. At this year’s 78th WHA, the World Stroke Organization (WSO) played a pivotal role in ensuring that stroke prevention, treatment, and care remained high on the global health agenda.

A Strong Voice for Stroke

Throughout the week, WSO actively championed stroke awareness and action through a series of high-impact activities:

Hosted the Global Stroke Action Coalition Side Event: “Overlooked and Underfunded – Turning the Tide on the Global Stroke Crisis” spotlighted the urgent need for investment in stroke prevention and care.
Participated in Multiple NCD Side Events: WSO representatives spoke at key events focused on non-communicable diseases (NCDs), reinforcing the link between stroke and broader NCD priorities.
Advocated in High-Level Meetings: Engaged directly with Member State delegates to push for stroke-specific policy and investment commitments.
Supported Key Policy Statements: WSO lent its voice to statements on Universal Health Coverage (UHC), the intersection of climate and health, and equitable access to medical imaging.
Attended WHA Plenary Sessions: Ensuring a continued presence and engagement with the core proceedings of the Assembly.

The week was filled with energy and momentum, marking meaningful progress for stroke advocacy on the world stage.

WHA78 Outcomes of Significance

Some of the most noteworthy outcomes from WHA78 include:

Adoption of the Historic Pandemic Agreement: A landmark step to build a more equitable, coordinated, and resilient global response to future pandemics. The landmark decision culminates more than three years of intensive negotiations launched by governments in response to the devastating impact of the COVID-19.
Resolution on Medical Imaging: A major milestone that will improve global access to diagnostic imaging—vital for timely and accurate stroke diagnosis and care.
Increased WHO Funding: Member States approved a 20% increase in contributions for 2026–2027, signaling a strong recommitment to global health investment.

Looking Ahead: HLM4 on NCDs and Mental Health

With the fourth High-Level Meeting on NCDs and Mental Health scheduled for September 2025, the topic of NCDs was front and centre at WHA78. Just ahead of the Assembly, the President of the UN General Assembly and the negotiation facilitators released the first draft of the political declaration expected to be adopted at HLM4.

The draft outlines clear targets and demonstrates encouraging political will from Member States. Written comments on the declaration were due May 27, and consultations are set to begin on June 5. The WSO, through the Global Stroke Action Coalition, provided input to this draft, ensuring stroke remains a core component of global NCD strategy.

WHA Side event: Strengthening medical imaging capacity to prevent and control NCDs. Minister of Health for Radiology Advisor of Egypt, Dr Mohammed, Fawzi, Prof Sheila Martins, Angelique Balquid (Philips), Mia Grupper and Katie Setum (Medtronic)

Approval of the historical pandemic agreement during the WHA.

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