Ireland and WHO Partner to Expand Global Access to Assistive Technology
- Ireland and the World Health Organization finalized a €12.5 million donor agreement in March 2024 to expand global access to assistive technology, positioning the country as a leader...
- According to government statements, the contribution supports a five-year initiative aimed at achieving national health system models that include assistive products.
- Ireland has identified the serious need to invest in public health systems alongside the WHO.
Ireland and the World Health Organization finalized a €12.5 million donor agreement in March 2024 to expand global access to assistive technology, positioning the country as a leader in digital health innovation, according to official government and WHO announcements. The funding initiative addresses a growing worldwide need, supporting marginalized populations such as older adults and people with disabilities who require vital products like hearing aids, wheelchairs, and prosthetics.
Funding Agreement Details and Global Health Targets
According to government statements, the contribution supports a five-year initiative aimed at achieving national health system models that include assistive products. This partnership builds upon prior international cooperation, including a 2022 launch where Taoiseach Micheál Martin, TD, joined leaders from the WHO and UNICEF to release the Global report on assistive technology. Minister Rabbitte noted that rising global health needs and a shrinking pool of health professionals make immediate investment vital.
Ireland has identified the serious need to invest in public health systems alongside the WHO.
Anne Rabbitte, T.D.
Addressing the 2050 Projections for Assistive Technology
Global demand for assistive technology is projected to surge significantly in the coming decades. While approximately 2.5 billion people currently need assistive products worldwide, that figure is expected to reach 3.5 billion by 2050 due to aging populations and an increase in noncommunicable diseases. Dr Yukiko Nakatani, WHO Assistant Director-General, Access to Medicines and Health Products, welcomed Ireland’s leadership and financial contribution.
Dr Yukiko Nakatani, World Health Organization
Digital Solutions and Primary Care Implementation
The five-year program funded by Ireland will test and deploy digital tools designed to remove persistent barriers to care. Planned projects include digital platforms that inform users about available products, supply-chain tracking systems, and online training modules for frontline health workers. Practical applications of these methods are already underway. In Tanzania, local health personnel have participated in online training programs covering basic assistive products, supported by mentor communication apps that facilitate community-level distribution of items like reading glasses and walking aids.
