We welcome the decision to develop a dedicated report on mental health for WHO’s governing bodies. This is a timely and significant step toward ensuring action on mental health is fully integrated within the broader NCD agenda.

We encourage Member States to use this opportunity to strengthen collaboration across WHO’s NCD and mental health workstreams. Greater integration will help ensure that mental health remains central to policy discussions, and this must include considerations on neurological conditions and alcohol policy. This report should also serve to enhance reporting mechanisms on mental health progress—promoting accountability and driving action.

We urge WHO and Member States to prioritize coherence and alignment between these workstreams to support a more integrated, people-centred approach to NCDs and mental health, responsive to the lived experiences of those affected.