UHC Day 2022: Building The World We Want – A Healthy Future For All

“The success or failure of any government in the final analysis must be measured by the well-being of its citizens. Nothing can be more important to a state than its public health; the state’s paramount concern should be the health of its people.”

The opening quote was a statement by the 32nd president of the United States, Franklin D Roosevelt, and captured the essence of universal health coverage – ensuring everyone can access the services they need without any hardship. However, this duty is not the government alone; the private sector, technical partners, and international development organizations all have a role in ensuring the health of all.

This year’s UHC day re-emphasizes the need for health for all, which has been WHO’S mantra for over half a decade and has been amplified since the turn of the century in 2000. Health sector stakeholders have made accords, declarations, and commitments, resulting in increased healthcare investments globally. However, gaps remain in access to equitable and quality healthcare services, especially in low and middle-income countries.

This year’s UHC day celebration is a clarion call for all stakeholders to reflect on what could be done to build a healthier world, its costs, and the consequences of inaction. As the COVID-19 pandemic has taught us, these consequences can be devastating. As an innovative partner in solving complex problems, we will continue to work with governments and international development organizations to proffer solutions to health system challenges.

Our aspiration is that in the coming years, healthcare globally will not be a privilege for those who can afford it but accessible to all who need it. The healthy world we want is possible, and we will continue to play our part in building this world.