WHO Launches Global Effort for Health Equity Among Persons with Disabilities
New York, Monday, 9 June 2025.
On 10 June 2025, the WHO will unveil a major initiative at the UN to combat health inequities affecting over 1.3 billion disabled people, targeting higher disease risks and mortality.
Objective and Scope of the Initiative
The WHO’s Global Initiative on Health Equity for Persons with Disabilities will be launched at the United Nations headquarters. This initiative specifically targets the 1.3 billion individuals living with disabilities who are disproportionately affected by health inequities. Factors such as socio-economic status, accessibility issues, and systemic health barriers contribute to higher morbidity and mortality rates in this group [1].
Strategic Partnerships and Collaborations
The initiative is backed by a robust coalition of international and national stakeholders, including Australia, Germany, Norway, and Sweden, alongside organizations like the Global Disability Fund and the International Disability Alliance. Such partnerships aim to ensure that the projects under this initiative are well-funded and effectively coordinated, addressing diverse challenges across various regions [1].
Economic Implications of Health Equity
Investing in health equity for persons with disabilities not only improves health outcomes but also has significant economic benefits. Reduced healthcare costs and improved productivity at the workforce level are key anticipated outcomes. Economic models suggest that inclusive health policies can lead to substantial savings by minimizing the need for expensive emergency care [1][4].
Data-Driven Strategies in Implementation
A major focus of the WHO initiative is the use of data-driven strategies to design and implement health programs. By leveraging data analytics, stakeholders can better understand the healthcare needs of people with disabilities and track progress over time. This approach ensures targeted interventions that are both efficient and effective in improving health outcomes [2][5].