WHO Urges Governments to Include Refugees, Migrants in National Health Policies

The World Health Organisation has called on countries to integrate the needs of refugees and migrants into their national health policies, noting a significant shift in how nations are responding to their health requirements.

In a statement released on Friday, the WHO welcomed progress made so far while urging governments, partners, and donors to accelerate efforts by embedding refugees and migrants in all health strategies and plans.

According to new data from the UN health agency, more than 60 countries two-thirds of those surveyed now include refugees and migrants in their national health policies and laws. The findings are contained in the newly released World report on promoting the health of refugees and migrants, which tracks progress on the WHO global action plan.

The report indicates that even in politically sensitive contexts, countries are increasingly relying on evidence, data, and established standards to guide how migration and health are addressed within national health systems.

Case studies from six WHO regions illustrate practical progress, including expanded migrant health insurance coverage in Thailand, the use of cross-cultural communication mediators in Belgium, and the inclusion of migrant community representatives in primary health care decision-making in Chile.

Drawing on data from 93 member states, the report establishes a global baseline for tracking progress toward inclusive, migrant-responsive health systems.

WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Ghebreyesus noted that refugees and migrants are not merely recipients of care but also serve as health workers, caregivers, and community leaders.

“Health systems are only truly universal when they serve everyone,” he said. “WHO’s new report shows that inclusion benefits whole societies and strengthens preparedness for future health challenges.”

The agency emphasized that investment in refugee and migrant health delivers broad dividends, supporting social and economic integration, strengthening health system resilience, and reinforcing global health security.

Despite progress, the report highlighted persistent gaps. Only 37 per cent of responding countries routinely collect and analyse migration-related health data as part of national health information systems.

Just 42 per cent include refugees and migrants in emergency preparedness and response plans, while fewer than 40 per cent report training health workers in culturally responsive care. Only 30 per cent have implemented communication campaigns to counter discrimination and misperceptions related to refugee and migrant health.