On September 29, 2025, U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced that the United States would reject a United Nations declaration on noncommunicable diseases (NCDs). Key reasons for this rejection included:
- Insufficient Goals: RFK criticized the declaration for setting modest targets that do not adequately address critical issues like the rising consumption of ultraprocessed foods, which contribute significantly to chronic diseases.
- Global Health Issues: He emphasized that chronic illnesses have doubled in the last generation, impacting millions before they even reach adulthood, and urged international collaboration for more impactful health measures.
Main Points from RFK’s Speech:
- Targets of the Declaration: It aims to reduce tobacco use and increase access to mental healthcare but falls short by not addressing the dangers of ultraprocessed foods.
- Concern Over Sovereignty: RFK argued that some provisions within the declaration could lead to “oppressive management” by international organizations, undermining national sovereignty in health matters.
- Call for Reform: He suggested that bodies like the U.N. and WHO need significant reforms before gaining credibility in global health leadership.
Reflections from Health Advocates:
- Support for the Rejection: Various health advocates commended the U.S. stance, stating it marked a pivotal moment for protecting health sovereignty and focusing on pressing health issues like ultraprocessed foods.
- Concerns About Authority Creep: Many observers expressed worries that the U.N. was overreaching its intended authority and moving towards imposing regulations that could circumvent national decision-making.
Implications and the Future:
- The rejection of the declaration signals a potential shift in how health policies may be formulated at both national and global levels.
- It invites countries to consider their sovereignty regarding health governance and sparks a conversation about the real causes behind health crises, such as the role of indulgent corporate practices contributing to health problems.
The United States will walk away from the Declaration on Non-Communicable Diseases, but we will never walk away from the world—or our commitment to end chronic disease. pic.twitter.com/bxQbfzMbrb
— Secretary Kennedy (@SecKennedy) September 26, 2025
On a significant day at the United Nations General Assembly, U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. (RFK Jr.) announced that the United States would reject a critical political declaration aimed at addressing non-communicable diseases (NCDs). This news surprised many, including Alison Cox, the policy director for the NCD Alliance, a global advocacy group focused on fighting chronic diseases. To understand this situation better, let’s break down the key points:
What are Non-Communicable Diseases?
Non-communicable diseases are chronic conditions such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and cancer. They are different from infections (like the flu) since they are not transmitted from person to person. These diseases account for about 43 million deaths every year worldwide, making them a major public health concern. Notably, 18 million people die before reaching the age of 70, with a majority of these premature deaths occurring in low- and middle-income countries.
The U.N. Declaration:
The U.N. declaration was developed over several years, involving extensive discussions among government representatives, health experts, and community advocates. It was designed to set achievable goals for improving global health by 2030. Some of the goals included:
- Reducing tobacco usage by 150 million people
- Helping 150 million more people control high blood pressure
- Increasing access to mental health care
This declaration is essential because it provides a structured plan for tackling diseases that affect millions of lives globally.
The U.S. Rejection: What RFK Jr. Said
During his speech, RFK Jr. acknowledged the importance of addressing chronic diseases but criticized the U.N. declaration, stating, “The United States will walk away from the declaration, but we will never walk away from the world or our commitment to end chronic disease.” He expressed concerns that the declaration overstepped the U.N.’s role and neglected what he deemed “the most pressing health issues.”
RFK also criticized the WHO, stating it “cannot claim credibility or leadership until it undergoes radical reform”. Additionally, the administration had cut funding for Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, citing “safety issues”.
Despite the U.S. decision, the viability of the declaration remains intact. U.N. General Assembly President Annalena Baerbock stated that the text would still be considered for final approval by member states in October, with many advocates believing it will receive the necessary endorsement.
Alison Cox expressed optimism, stating that regardless of the U.S. stance, other governments would continue to move forward with their commitments to improve public health and combat NCDs. The global community acknowledges the urgent need for action against these diseases, emphasizing a collective resolve to not let one nation’s withdrawal hinder progress.
Public Voice Survey Calls for Major Health Overhaul: Majority Support WHO to Exit
Perhaps the most contentious finding of the Public Voice survey was that a strong majority wanted the WHO to “get out of India.”
The survey showed that many people who took part were in favor of the well-known “RFK decision.”
Rather than relying on the WHO, the survey indicates that we should look to the Universal Health Organisation (UHO) for expert guidance.
UHO is a forum to ensure impartial, truthful, unbiased and relevant information on health reaches every citizen of the world to make informed choices pertaining to their health.
Motto: Placing People’s health in People’s Hands
Website: https://uho.org.in/
WHO Quit India : Public Voice says the survey is a good sign of how the public feels, encouraging the government to withdraw from WHO initiatives.
Ref:
Children’s Health Defense, Twitter
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