World Medical Association welcomes COP30 Health Community Recommendations ahead of Health Day

The World Medical Association (WMA) welcomes the COP30 Health Community Recommendations, issued by the Global Climate and Health Alliance and its partners, as a strong and action-oriented framework for placing health at the heart of global climate policy.

In anticipation of the dedicated Health Day on 13 November, the WMA echoes the global call for bold and equitable climate action that safeguards health, builds resilient health systems, and recognises the essential role of health professionals in leading the response to the climate crisis.

Health professionals are on the front lines of addressing the physical and mental health consequences of climate change, including heatwaves, infectious diseases, malnutrition, and the health effects of displacement. The WMA underscores the importance of protecting and equipping the health workforce to respond effectively to these growing challenges.

The WMA reiterates that reducing emissions and phasing out fossil fuels are among the most powerful health interventions available today. Climate action can prevent millions of deaths caused by air pollution and environmental degradation while delivering co-benefits such as cleaner air, safer water, better nutrition, and improved mental health. A One Health approach, linking human, animal, and ecosystem health, remains essential for sustainable and equitable solutions.

Strengthening health systems to withstand climate threats is fundamental. The WMA calls for increased investment in climate-resilient healthcare infrastructure, education and training for health professionals, and their full engagement in national adaptation planning. Physicians and other health professionals must be part of decision-making processes that shape climate and health policy.

Dr. Jacqueline Kitulu, WMA President, said:“Climate change is a health crisis. Physicians witness daily how environmental degradation translates into disease, suffering, and inequity. We urge all governments to act decisively on these recommendations and make health the driving force of climate policy.”

The WMA reaffirms its commitment to advocate for climate-smart health systems and to work with the global health community to ensure that COP30 delivers measurable progress towards a healthier, more sustainable planet.