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Get Involved: Supporting a World Health Assembly Resolution on Skin Diseases

Get Involved: Supporting a World Health Assembly Resolution on Skin Diseases

Join Us in Addressing the Need for a WHA78 Resolution on Skin Diseases as a Global Public Health Priority

The International League of Dermatological Societies (ILDS) is committed to strengthening dermatological care worldwide. As part of a coalition of organisations advocating for a World Health Assembly (WHA) resolution on all skin diseases, we are working alongside partners to ensure greater recognition and action on all skin diseases.

Draft Resolution

"Skin Diseases as a global public health priority"

Read the resolution here

At the 156th session of the WHO Executive Board in February 2025, discussions on skin diseases highlighted the growing recognition of skin health as a global priority. Following deliberations, the Executive Board recommended the skin diseases resolution for adoption at the 78th World Health Assembly in May 2025.

This guide provides key information and practical steps for ILDS members, organisations, and dermatologists around the world to advocate for skin health at the highest levels, galvanising international support for a resolution that would drive investment in resources, research, and healthcare interventions. You will find details on why this resolution matters, how you can take action, and links to essential advocacy resources to help you make an impact.

Why This Matters

By prioritising skin health on a global level, we can improve early detection, enable effective treatment, and reduce the stigma surrounding these conditions. This resolution represents a significant advancement towards establishing stronger policies, securing more resources, and providing better care for those affected.

This resolution is focused on all skin diseases including allergies, inflammatory diseases, autoimmune diseases, genetic diseases, vascular diseases, cancers, infections (viral, bacterial and fungal) and rare autoinflammatory diseases. It prioritizes the perspective of patients and their caregivers in all aspects of planning and implementation.

 

Adoption of a WHA resolution on all skin diseases will:

  • Improve patient outcomes by integrating dermatological care into global health policies.
  • Strengthen health systems by ensuring skin health is prioritised in public health strategies.
  • Drive international collaboration by bringing together dermatology societies, policymakers, and patient organisations.

We applaud the Member States - Côte d’Ivoire, Nigeria, Togo, and Micronesia - who have championed this resolution, as well as the dedicated partners who have tirelessly advocated for this recognition. We also sincerely appreciate all member states who supported this critical issue during the 156th WHO Executive Board Meeting.

How You Can Take Action

- Engage with policymakers: Advocate for your national government to support the resolution.
- Raise awareness: Share key messages through your society’s platforms, events, and social media.
- Collaborate with partners: Work with other organisations, including patient advocacy groups, to amplify the impact.

Download resources

Access Additional Resources

GlobalSkin has developed a comprehensive WHA advocacy toolkit with key messages, letter templates, and guidance. Rather than duplicating these materials, we encourage you to explore their resources: GlobalSkin’s WHA Resolution Advocacy Toolkit.

Download

GlobalSkin's WHA Resolution Advocacy Toolkit

Access the toolkit

With the final decision approaching at #WHA78, we call on the global health community to support this resolution and take decisive action for skin health worldwide. The momentum is growing – let us join together to improve #SkinHealth4theWorld.

WHA Resolution Working Group