On Saturday 24 May 2025 an historic resolution on “Skin diseases as a global public health priority” was adopted at the 78th meeting of the World Health Assembly (WHA) in Geneva.
The Resolution expresses the unanimous commitment by Member States to address the burden of all conditions primarily affecting the skin as well as those that are systemic but associated with skin manifestations.
The Resolution is driven by critical gaps that demand urgent action. Skin diseases are among the most visible health conditions, often leading to stigma, discrimination, and emotional distress. Yet when recognised and interpreted accurately, skin signs can enable early detection of a wide range of diseases.
The Resolution urges Member States to:
- Strengthen primary healthcare systems and workforce training.
- Expand access to affordable diagnostics and treatments.
- Integrate skin health into disability, rehabilitation, and mental health policies.
- Promote research, surveillance, and innovation, consider innovative integrated service delivery models, including telemedicine platforms and training for digital assessments, to strengthen dermatology services, especially in remote and hard-to-reach areas.
It also calls on the international community including NGOs, academic institutions, and the private sector to collaborate in supporting implementation, reducing stigma, and advancing access to care.
The resolution was advanced by the International Alliance of Dermatology Patient Organizations (GlobalSkin), the International League of Dermatological Societies (ILDS) and the Health Diplomacy Alliance (HAD) who will continue contributing to ensure inclusive consultations and implementation of the upcoming national actions and a Global Plan of Action with Member States and many leading organisations in the field.
The Irish Skin Foundation (ISF) is a founding member of the International Alliance of Dermatology Patient Organizations (GlobalSkin) and is represented on their board by the ISF’s David McMahon who attended the WHA to support the adoption of the Resolution.
WHA resolutions are formal, agreed-upon statements of policy adopted by the WHA, which is the supreme decision-making body of the World Health Organisation (WHO). They serve as international policy instruments, reflecting political consensus and setting precedents.
Led by Côte d’Ivoire and co-sponsored by Colombia, China, Egypt, Micronesia, Nigeria, and Togo, this Resolution marks a pivotal moment for millions of people living with skin diseases worldwide.
If you need guidance or support about managing a skin condition, contact the Irish Skin Foundation’s Ask-a-Nurse Helpline
