A global grassroots campaign led by people living with a rare disease and their families has successfully secured the adoption of the first-ever UN Resolution on “Addressing the Challenges of Persons Living with a Rare Disease and their Families.”
A UN resolution provides visibility for the rare disease community on the global policy landscape, as well as an assurance that rare diseases will be among the UN priorities within its 2030 Agenda. It is a key step towards a brighter future for people living with a rare disease.
The resolution was the outcome of tireless advocacy from civil society partners, including the NGO Committee for Rare Diseases, Rare Diseases International (RDI), EURORDIS – Rare Diseases Europe, and national rare disease groups from over 100 countries.
“This UN Resolution within the 2030 Agenda and its SDGs is a supportive global framework to encourage regional policy and action. In the European Union, it should translate into a Europe’s Action Plan for Rare Diseases,” said EURORDIS-Rare Diseases Europe’s Chief Executive Officer, Yann Le Cam.
Anders Olauson, Chair of the NGO Committee, stated: “The UNGA Resolution illustrates the power of the global community. Individually, rare diseases are rare, but together people living with a rare disease constitute a significant community deserving of UN support and recognition. Together, we are a powerful and inspirational voice.”
With such recognition at the global level, we now need to bring rare diseases forward as a priority in our Countries. In Europe Members of the European Parliament will be debating rare diseases during the Plenary Sessions, calling on the European Commission for Europe’s Action Plan for Rare Diseases. Watch and keep them awake for results!
