The Canadian Rare Disease Network (CRDN) is proud to support the World Health Assembly (WHA) Resolution on Rare Diseases: “Rare Diseases: A Priority for Global Health Equity and Inclusion”. This initiative, spearheaded by Egypt and co-sponsored by Spain, Qatar, Malaysia, France, Panama, and Chile, marks a significant step toward recognizing and addressing the global challenges faced by individuals living with rare diseases.
In Canada, over 1 in 12 people—more than 3 million individuals—are affected by a rare disease, with ripple effects impacting families, caregivers, healthcare systems, and society at large. The WHA Resolution calls for the development of a Global Action Plan on Rare Diseases, emphasizing the importance of international collaboration to drive progress, ensure health equity, and improve the lives of those affected worldwide.
Supporting this resolution directly aligns with CRDN’s mission to connect Canada’s rare disease community and advance care, research, and innovation. By prioritizing global health equity and inclusion, this initiative fosters greater collaboration, improved diagnosis, access to treatments, and comprehensive care—key pillars that drive CRDN’s work. It also strengthens Canada’s position as a leader in rare disease advocacy and ensures that the voices of patients, caregivers, and researchers are amplified on the global stage.
CRDN has formally written to the Minister of Health, urging Canada to join as a co-sponsor of this critical resolution. By supporting this initiative, Canada has the opportunity to play a leading role in addressing the unique challenges faced by rare disease patients while promoting solutions that benefit communities worldwide.
We thank the broader rare disease community for their unwavering dedication and advocacy. Together, we can ensure that no one is left behind in the pursuit of health equity and inclusion for all.
Learn more about Rare Diseases International’s campaign for a WHA Resolution on Rare Diseases