Global Alliance for Drowning Prevention

June 1, 2023

During the 76th meeting of the World Health Assembly (WHA), a significant alliance was established to tackle a pressing global public health issue – drowning prevention. With over 90% of drowning deaths occurring in low- and middle-income countries, this alliance aims to assess the impact of drowning worldwide and implement effective prevention measures.

Objective of the Alliance

The main objective of the Global Alliance for Drowning Prevention is to comprehensively assess the impact of drowning worldwide. By preparing a global status report, policymakers can gain critical insights into the issue and make informed decisions regarding prevention strategies. The alliance is dedicated to ensuring that drowning prevention receives the attention it deserves on the global public health agenda.

Impact on Vulnerable Populations

Drowning disproportionately affects the world’s poorest people. Recognizing this, the alliance acknowledges the urgent need to address inequalities in drowning risk exacerbated by rising poverty. By focusing on prevention measures and targeted interventions, the alliance aims to save lives and improve the well-being of vulnerable populations.

Global Resolution

resolution put forward by the Governments of Bangladesh and Ireland called upon the World Health Organization (WHO) to lead collaborative efforts in preventing drowning within the United Nations system and relevant UN entities.

As per the resolution, member states were urged to examine their respective national drowning situations and implement policies and programs aimed at mitigating risks.

The draft decision emphasized the need for reporting progress on the implementation of the resolution to the World Health Assembly (WHA) in 2025. This report should encompass updates on the global status report on drowning prevention and highlight contributions towards the Thirteenth General Programme of Work, covering the period 2019-2025.

Furthermore, the proposal recommended that the report in 2029 should include an assessment of the accomplishments of the global alliance and its alignment with broader agendas, including the UN-mandated Sustainable Development Goals and the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030.

Call to the WHO Director-General

The proposal requests the WHO director-general to facilitate research on drowning context and risk factors. Additionally, the director-general is encouraged to promote the adaptation of effective drowning prevention measures and evaluate the effectiveness of existing prevention programs. These efforts are crucial for developing evidence-based strategies and improving global drowning prevention outcomes.

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