The World Health Organization (WHO) described the high-level meeting as a groundbreaking step by governments and partners in combating tuberculosis. This meeting follows the Ministerial conference held in Moscow last November, where leaders from 120 countries committed to accelerating progress towards ending tuberculosis. Ms. Mohammed labeled tuberculosis a “vicious epidemic” affecting 10.4 million people globally, driven by poverty, inequality, migration, and conflict. She emphasized the need for a systemic approach considering the social factors perpetuating its spread. To end this global health crisis, enhanced health and social protection systems, increased investment, and better tools to overcome antimicrobial resistance are essential, with around 60,000 cases of drug-resistant tuberculosis reported annually. The Under-Secretary-General advocated for a comprehensive approach that promotes community health and well-being while eliminating disease-specific silos. TB impacts every continent, with over half of new cases in five countries, including Mozambique, the Philippines, and South Africa, having 500 cases per 100,000 people compared to fewer than 10 in high-income countries. Ms. Mohammed stressed the need for more progress to fulfill the UN’s commitment to leaving no one behind. She noted that progress is achievable if efforts are informed, community-empowered, and strategically funded. WHO will lead inter-UN initiatives to support government efforts, working with civil society and partners to boost the TB response. The WHO’s recent Global Tuberculosis Report highlighted insufficient country actions and funding as the main challenges. The meeting concluded with a Political Declaration on tuberculosis, endorsed by Heads of State, aiming to enhance action and investment to eradicate TB and save lives.
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