What the WHA’s landmark resolution on skin diseases means for global health and equity

20 Jun 2025 GS 2 International Relations
    Live Views: Loading...

  • The 78th World Health Assembly (WHA) adopted, for the first time, a resolution declaring “Skin diseases as a global public health priority.”

  • It marks a paradigm shift in viewing skin health not as cosmetic, but integral to public health, equity, and human dignity.

  • Resolution was jointly sponsored by countries like Côte d’Ivoire, Nigeria, Togo, Micronesia, and supported by the International League of Dermatologic Societies (ILDS).

  • 1.9 billion people globally suffer from skin diseases, yet funding and attention have been low, especially in LMICs (Low and Middle-Income Countries).

  • The resolution highlights:

    • Stigma and inaccessibility of care in low-resource settings.

    • Neglect of skin health in health systems and research.

    • Need for dermatology training in primary care.



Feature Details
What is WHA? The World Health Assembly is the decision-making body of the WHO (World Health Organization).
Founded 1948, along with the founding of WHO.
Members Comprises 194 Member States (same as WHO).
Meets Annually in Geneva, Switzerland, usually in May.
Main Functions 1. Approves WHO’s budget and policies 2. Appoints Director-General 3. Reviews global health priorities
Recent (2025) Theme/Focus Recognised skin diseases as a global health priority. Other recent topics include pandemic preparedness, health equity, and universal health coverage.
Recent Indian Representation India often represented by the Union Health Minister 


← Back to list