WHO Calls for Health Policies for Refugees and Migrants

The World Health Organization (WHO) has called on governments to integrate health policies for refugees and migrants into national health strategies. This statement, made on a Friday, highlights a significant shift in how countries respond to the health needs of these populations.

A new report indicates that 60 countries, representing two-thirds of those surveyed, have included refugee and migrant health policies in their national health laws. However, the report also reveals persistent gaps, with only 37% of countries routinely collecting and analyzing migration-related health data.

Additionally, only 42% of countries include refugees and migrants in emergency preparedness and disaster risk reduction plans. Training for health workers to provide culturally responsive care to refugees and migrants is lacking, with fewer than 40% of countries reporting such training.

Dr. Tedros Ghebreyesus, WHO's Director-General, emphasized that refugees and migrants are not merely recipients of care but integral to health systems. The report underscores the importance of investing in refugee and migrant health to strengthen overall health systems and promote social and economic integration.