High-level Meeting on the Fight against Tuberculosis

The Heads of State and Government, along with representatives of various States and Governments, convened at the United Nations on September 22, 2023. Their primary objective was to reiterate their collective commitment to ending the tuberculosis epidemic by 2030. They also sought to evaluate the progress made in achieving the goals outlined in the 2018 political declaration from the high-level General Assembly meeting addressing tuberculosis. Expressing deep concern, they acknowledged the possibility that some global targets set during the UN high-level meeting might remain unattained. 

The leaders were notably alarmed by the adverse repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic on the accessibility of diagnosis and treatment for individuals affected by tuberculosis. This circumstance has resulted in an escalation of illnesses and fatalities, thereby exacerbating the persistent ailment associated with drug-resistant and multidrug-resistant tuberculosis.

Recognizing the midterm review of progress on the Sustainable Development Agenda as a pivotal opportunity, the leaders resolved to intensify their leadership and concerted action against tuberculosis. This response must be all-encompassing and urgent, addressing the disease itself, its root causes, and its consequences on national, regional, and global scales.

Their primary objective is to augment investments dedicated to tuberculosis response, research, and innovation. This strategic approach aims at reducing the number of individuals afflicted by tuberculosis, averting fatalities, and mitigating the catastrophic financial burdens associated with the disease. Drawing from the valuable insights acquired during the response to the COVID-19 pandemic, they remain committed to achieving the targets delineated in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the End TB Strategy.

The full Political Declaration adopted can be consulted here.

Last update

30/9/2023