Handicap International Federation, supported by the World Rehabilitation Alliance, welcomes the Director-General's report and its recognition of participation and functioning as central to health. While high-risk groups - including persons with disabilities and chronic conditions - are acknowledged, rehabilitation is not sufficiently identified as a health system response to social disconnection.

Loneliness and isolation are not only social issues, but also consequences of unmet rehabilitation needs. Evidence shows rehabilitation and assistive technology support mobility, communication, and participation - key to well-being.

We urge WHO to integrate rehabilitation and assistive technology into implementation of the social connection agenda. We stand ready to collaborate with WHO and Member States on this matter.