Pierre Salignon

Just 10 years ago, infectious diseases such as tuberculosis, HIV/AIDS and malaria were the main worldwide threat for health. But today, Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs), such as diabetes or cardiovascular disease, which only receive 2% of the total financing allocated by international health partners, constitute a health emergency in high-income countries and low-income countries alike.

The war in Syria is continuing, with its consequent suffering and violations of human rights, and no prospect of a rapid resolution. A study by Fondation Terre des Hommes (TDH) published in June 2016 gives chilling insight into the survival conditions of Syrian refugee children, and the different forms of exploitation they are subject to. It draws attention to another tragic effect of the war in Syria and the refugee crisis it has caused. Finally, it calls for the need to change approach in order to increase the protection of refugee children.

5.7% of the adult population in Africa is now affected by diabetes. This disease causes 5.1 million deaths around the world, i.e. 6.8% of annual global mortality. The international community needs to take urgent action.