Global NCD Negotiations: Concerns and World Report Analysis
- Concerns are mounting that crucial commitments to combat non-communicable diseases (NCDs) - including heart disease, stroke, cancer, diabetes, and chronic respiratory diseases - are being weakened in the...
- Non-communicable diseases are the leading cause of death globally, responsible for 74% of all deaths in 2019, according to the World Health Institution (WHO).
- Advocates and public health experts express alarm over the removal or weakening of key provisions in the draft declaration.
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Political Declaration for Non-Communicable Diseases Faces Dilution Ahead of UN Meeting
Table of Contents
Concerns are mounting that crucial commitments to combat non-communicable diseases (NCDs) – including heart disease, stroke, cancer, diabetes, and chronic respiratory diseases – are being weakened in the draft political declaration for the upcoming 4th UN High-Level Meeting.
What are Non-Communicable Diseases and Why Do Thay Matter?
Non-communicable diseases are the leading cause of death globally, responsible for 74% of all deaths in 2019, according to the World Health Institution (WHO). They disproportionately affect low- and middle-income countries, hindering economic development and placing immense strain on healthcare systems. unlike infectious diseases, NCDs are generally long-lasting and require ongoing management.
The Concerns: What’s Being Watered Down?
Advocates and public health experts express alarm over the removal or weakening of key provisions in the draft declaration. Specifically, concerns centre around:
- Targets for reducing premature mortality: The original ambition to achieve a significant reduction in premature deaths from NCDs by 2030 is reportedly being scaled back.
- Measures to address risk factors: Strong language on tackling tobacco use, harmful use of alcohol, unhealthy diets, and physical inactivity is being compromised, potentially due to lobbying from industries with vested interests.
- Financing for NCD prevention and control: Commitments to increase financial resources for NCD programs, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, are being weakened.
- Access to essential medicines and technologies: Provisions ensuring affordable access to essential medicines and technologies for NCDs are under threat.
Why is This Happening? The Role of Industry Influence
The reported weakening of the declaration is widely attributed to intense lobbying efforts by industries that profit from products linked to NCDs, such as tobacco, alcohol, and processed food companies. These industries often employ tactics to downplay the health risks associated with their products and to resist regulations aimed at curbing their consumption. This influence raises serious questions about conflicts of interest and the integrity of the UN process.
The Timeline: Key Dates and Events
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| September 2023 | Ongoing negotiations on the political declaration. |
| October 2023 | 4th UN High-Level Meeting on Non-Communicable Diseases. |