SEAR NCDA Participates in United Nations Multistakeholder Hearing on NCDs and Mental Health
Date: Friday, 2 May 2025
Venue: United Nations Headquarters, New York
As part of the preparatory process for the Fourth United Nations High-Level Meeting (HLM4) on the Prevention and Control of Noncommunicable Diseases (NCDs) and the Promotion of Mental Health and Well-being, an interactive multistakeholder hearing was convened by the President of the General Assembly on 2 May 2025 at the United Nations Headquarters in New York.
This hearing served as a key platform for civil society, people living with NCDs and mental health conditions, academia, youth, private sector, and other stakeholders to present their perspectives and recommendations to Member States. The aim was to ensure that the political declaration to be adopted at HLM4 in September 2025 is informed by inclusive and evidence-based dialogue.
The South-East Asia Regional NCD Alliance (SEAR NCDA) was honored to be represented in this global consultation, contributing to the collective voice of civil society and reinforcing regional priorities in the global NCD and mental health agenda.
Advocacy for Stronger Political Commitment
The hearing brought together advocates from across continents who emphasized the need for:
- Enhanced political leadership and commitment to NCD prevention and mental health promotion
- Increased and sustained financing for NCD and mental health programs
- Meaningful involvement of people living with NCDs in policy and decision-making processes
- Comprehensive integration of mental health services into primary health care
- Transparent governance mechanisms, free from commercial and industry influence
During the open discussion, interventions underscored the critical need to transition from political rhetoric to concrete, measurable actions that address the needs of those most affected by NCDs and mental health conditions.
SEAR NCDA’s participation in the hearing reaffirmed the alliance’s commitment to elevating the voices of civil society within the South-East Asia Region and advocating for context-specific, equity-driven, and people-centered health policies at the global level.
Next Steps:
SEAR NCDA will continue its active engagement in the lead-up to HLM4 and work closely with regional and global partners to ensure that the outcomes of the meeting reflect the realities and aspirations of communities across South-East Asia.
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