The World Health Organization (WHO) will play an important role at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) High-level Week, from 22 to 30 September 2025, where global leaders will gather to accelerate progress on the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Health will be a central theme, with Heads of State and governments meeting on 25 September 2025 to set a new vision for the prevention and control of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) and the promotion of mental health and well-being towards 2030 and beyond through a new, ambitious political declaration.

The declaration will reaffirm the global commitment to reduce premature mortality from NCDs by one third by 2030 and to expand access to mental health services. It will also outline a 5-year action plan featuring priority, evidence-based and cost-effective interventions to reduce the burden of NCDs, strengthen mental health systems and advance universal health coverage.

NCDs are a major health issue both globally and regionally. They account for 74% of global deaths, while mental health conditions affect nearly 1 billion people worldwide. In the Eastern Mediterranean Region, NCDs claim 2.8 million lives annually, and mental health challenges persist. Both NCD and mental health conditions are compounded by conflict, displacement and chronic under-investment.

WHO Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean Dr Hanan Balkhy will represent the Region at UNGA alongside a technical delegation. “The WHO is committed to supporting countries in achieving the SDGs and reducing premature mortality from NCDs,” said Dr Balkhy. “At the regional level, we are also committed to reducing the burden of NCDs and mental health conditions. We call on global leaders to invest in health systems that deliver essential services to all people, everywhere.”