IFPMA welcomes the adoption of the WHA78 Resolution on rare diseases
On 24 May 2025, a resolution on rare diseases was adopted at the 78th session of the World Health Assembly. IFPMA issued a statement in support of the resolution.
The International Federation of Pharmaceutical Manufacturers and Associations (IFPMA), together with its member companies and associations, welcomes the adoption of the World Health Assembly (WHA) Resolution on Rare Diseases.
This Resolution marks a pivotal step in accelerating action for rare diseases. With over 300 million people living with a rare disease (PLWRD) globally—and many more undiagnosed—this initiative reflects a growing commitment to address the unmet needs of this diverse and underserved community.
We commend the leadership of Egypt and Spain, along with the 27 co-sponsoring Member States, for their commitment to advancing this Resolution. We also laud the efforts of the Rare Diseases International Coalition, which has brought together 275 stakeholders in support of the Resolution and Global Action Plan. as well as the coalition of civil society organizations led by Rare Diseases International.
The proposed Global Action Plan on Rare Diseases (GAPRD), as called for by the Resolution, represents a unique opportunity to develop coordinated and sustainable approaches that improve early diagnosis, care pathways, and health innovation.
We strongly support an inclusive, consultative process for the development of the GAPRD—one that involves people living with rare diseases, caregivers and families, patient organizations, healthcare providers, governments, and industry. Such a plan can inspire and guide national and regional strategies to improve early diagnosis, care, and treatment—while also fostering innovation for unmet medical needs.
As the innovative pharmaceutical industry, we reaffirm our commitment to partnering across sectors to drive forward research and development in rare diseases, while supporting access to care and treatment solutions that reflect local realities.
We look forward to continuing our collaboration with the World Health Organization, Member States, and all stakeholders to turn the vision of this Resolution into tangible outcomes that improve lives worldwide.
About IFPMA
IFPMA represents the innovative pharmaceutical industry at the international level, engaging in official relations with the United Nations and multilateral organizations. Our vision is to ensure that scientific progress translates into the next generation of medicines and vaccines that deliver a healthier future for people everywhere.
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To achieve this, we act as a trusted partner, bringing our members' expertise to champion pharmaceutical innovation, drive policy that supports the research, development, and delivery of health technologies, and create sustainable solutions that advance global health.
