A truly global commitment to health requires the readiness to “embark on a new path, confident that, by working together, each of us in accordance with his or her own sensibilities and responsibilities, can build a world in which everyone can lead an authentically human life in truth, justice and peace
Statement of H.E. Archbishop Ettore Balestrero, Apostolic Nuncio and Permanent Observer of the Holy See to the United Nations and Other International Organizations in Geneva at the 78th World Health Assembly
Agenda Item 3: General Debate following the Report of the Director General “One World for Health”
Geneva, 20 May 2025
Mr. President,
The right to health is a fundamental human right, based on the inherent God given dignity of every person. However, at a time of heightened global tensions, as conflicts and wars are intensifying, climate change and environmental degradation worsen, and poverty increases,[1] the right to health, including access to quality and affordable health care, is undeniably being compromised and remains out of reach for too many people, especially in developing countries.
The Holy See therefore welcomes the principal theme of this 78th World Health Assembly, “One World for Health”. A truly global commitment to health must reflect the recognition that we are one human family, with shared responsibilities for one another. Healthcare is not a privilege for the few, but a right for all, and the health of each person is inseparable from the health of all.
Mr. President,
In light of the aforementioned challenges, the WHO Pandemic Agreement represents an opportunity to move forward on a path grounded in multilateral cooperation, social justice, and unity, rather than isolationism, nationalism, or exclusion. It frames multilateralism as an expression of a renewed sense of global co-responsibility[2] and it represents an effective commitment to “One World for Health”, with a special attention to the poorest.
While welcoming the progress towards the adoption of the Pandemic Agreement, the Holy See encourages all Member States to work urgently and constructively towards the completion of the PABS Annex. This would demonstrate a global commitment not only to pandemic preparedness, but also the fair and equitable sharing of benefits, technologies, and knowledge.
Mr. President,
A truly global commitment to health requires the readiness to “embark on a new path, confident that, by working together, each of us in accordance with his or her own sensibilities and responsibilities, can build a world in which everyone can lead an authentically human life in truth, justice and peace”[3] .
Thank you, Mr. President.
[1] Cf. Pope Francis, Message for the Celebration of the 55th World Day of Peace, 1 January 2022.
[2] Cf. Pope Francis, Video Message to the 75th Meeting of the General Assembly of the United Nations, 25 September 2020.
[3] Pope Leo XIV, Audience with the Diplomatic Corps accredited to the Holy See, on the occasion of the beginning of his Petrine ministry, 16 May 2025.