WHO interactive multistakeholder hearing on noncommunicable diseases and mental health for young professionals

On 15 April 2025, the World Health Organization (WHO) held an interactive Multistakeholder Hearing on Noncommunicable Diseases (NCDs) and Mental Health for young professionals. This event was part of the preparatory process for the UN General Assembly High-level Meeting on the Prevention and Control of NCDs and the Promotion of Mental Health and Well-being. Organized as a pre-conference meeting, it led into the Second General Meeting of the WHO Global Coordination Mechanism on NCD Prevention and Control (GCM/NCD).

The Young Professionals’ Hearing offered a unique opportunity to strengthen youth leadership and promote meaningful participation of young people in high-level political processes aimed at shaping national responses to NCDs and mental health challenges. It was organized in close collaboration with the WHO Youth Council.

More than 85 young professionals from diverse backgrounds and all WHO regions participated, including representatives from international agencies, civil society organizations, academia, the private sector, and individuals living with or advocating for the rights of people living with NCDs and mental health conditions.