Physician leaders adopt Resolution reaffirming childhood vaccination as a global public health priority

Physician leaders meeting during the 232nd WMA Council Session in Belgrade, have adopted a new Resolution on Childhood Vaccination Programmes, warning against any relaxation of routine immunisation measures and reaffirming vaccination as a cornerstone of global public health.

The resolution reflects growing international concern over declining childhood vaccination rates and the risk of renewed outbreaks of preventable diseases. In an interconnected world, decisions affecting immunisation in one country can have consequences far beyond national borders.

WMA warns that weakening childhood vaccination programmes can lead to the resurgence of diseases once close to elimination, placing children and vulnerable communities at risk. Outbreaks of illnesses such as measles or meningitis can spread rapidly, particularly affecting countries with limited public health response capacity.

Dr Jacqueline Kitulu, President of the World Medical Association, said: “Vaccination remains one of the greatest achievements in the history of medicine. Protecting children through immunisation is a shared global duty.”

The resolution recalls the WMA Statement on the Prioritisation of Immunisation and emphasises the Association’s longstanding commitment to universal vaccination, evidence-based public health policy, and equitable protection for all children.

By adopting this resolution, the World Medical Association calls on governments, health authorities and medical professionals to safeguard trust in vaccines and ensure strong, accessible and effective childhood immunisation programmes worldwide.

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