An Unprecedented Milestone for Global Kidney Advocacy
For the first time in history, a resolution solely dedicated to kidney health is poised to be considered for adoption during the 78th World Health Assembly (WHA78), taking place this May.
Championed by Guatemala, co-sponsored by Thailand, and supported by an expanding coalition of UN Member States, the proposed resolution—titled “Reducing the burden of noncommunicable diseases through the promotion of kidney health and strengthening prevention and control of kidney disease”—urges the global community to formally recognize kidney disease as a major public health concern. It also underscores the need for equitable access to life-saving treatment and investment in robust health systems that can better serve individuals living with or at risk for kidney disease.
As the only kidney health organization in formal official relations with the World Health Organization (WHO) and recognized as a non-State actor, the International Society of Nephrology (ISN) is strategically utilizing this moment to elevate kidney health to a central place within the global health agenda.
ISN-Devex Policy Event: Accelerating Support for the Resolution
In an effort to catalyze high-level attention and galvanize political and public backing for the resolution, the ISN, in partnership with Devex, will co-host a key event titled “Kidney Health Matters: A Policy Imperative for Economic Resilience.” The session will take place on Wednesday, May 21, from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. (CEST), in Geneva, Switzerland.
Attend Onsite or Join Virtually – Your Voice Matters
This one-hour event will bring together distinguished speakers from the WHO, leaders in global healthcare, health ministry officials, private sector stakeholders, and patient advocates. Confirmed and invited participants include high-level representatives from Guatemala, Thailand, Somalia, and Spain (to be confirmed). Central themes will include the economic advantages of early diagnosis, integrating kidney health into Universal Health Coverage (UHC), and the urgent need for cohesive, international collaboration to combat kidney disease.
The ISN-Devex event is made possible through the support of AstraZeneca and Boehringer Ingelheim, two organizations committed to advancing noncommunicable disease care.
Join the Global Call to Action – Help Secure the Resolution’s Success
The ISN urges the global kidney community—clinicians, patients, researchers, policy experts, and supporters alike—to help amplify this historic opportunity for change:
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Sign and circulate the ISN Global Petition
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Utilize ISN’s advocacy toolkit, which includes a compelling open letter to UN Member States, a concise summary of the resolution, social media graphics, a downloadable email template, and a campaign poster
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Participate in the ISN NRN Webinar on April 28, where strategies to increase recognition of kidney disease in global policy discussions will be explored
By coming together at this pivotal moment, we can reshape the trajectory of kidney health worldwide and ensure that no one is left behind in accessing the care they need.