In a major milestone for global public health advocacy, Orapuh Journal proudly participated in a worldwide editorial campaign that played a key role in the adoption of a landmark resolution by the World Health Organization (WHO). The resolution, titled “Pillar 3, 18.1: Effects of Nuclear War on Public Health,” was passed at the 77th World Health Assembly (WHA) on 26 May 2025, with 86 countries voting in favour.
This success marks the WHO’s renewed commitment to study and report on the health impacts of nuclear war—its first formal engagement with this issue since 1993.
A Global Collaborative Effort
The journey to this breakthrough began in mid-2024 with a proposal from the International Physicians for the Prevention of Nuclear War (IPPNW). It was supported by a multi-journal editorial effort backed by the World Association of Medical Editors (WAME). The editorial, titled “Ending nuclear weapons, before they end us,” was authored by 23 leading figures in medicine and public health, including Prof. Sir Andy Haines, Tilman Ruff, and Chris Zielinski.
Thanks to the collective effort of editors worldwide—including Orapuh Journal—the editorial reached a remarkable milestone: 135 medical journals across the globe published it, many offering Open Access and waiving publication fees. This was far beyond the modest expectations for such a short campaign window (March to May 2025).
The Power of Diplomacy and Advocacy
The resolution was driven forward diplomatically by small yet resolute nations: Samoa, the Marshall Islands, and Vanuatu, with commendable leadership from diplomats Marissa Toomata, Augustine Sokimi, and Helen Weldu. The proposal gained early traction and was supported by 34 co-sponsoring countries ahead of the WHA.
The editorial helped amplify public health voices globally, reinforcing the resolution’s urgency and credibility just in time for the Assembly debate.
Overcoming Resistance
Despite robust support, the resolution was not without its opponents. Some countries, notably the United Kingdom and 13 others—primarily NATO members—voted against it, citing concerns about potential duplication of work and WHO’s budget constraints.
However, advocates of the resolution pointed out that WHO’s unique mandate on health and the modest cost of $330,000 over four years were more than justified. Moreover, the UN General Assembly had already called for an independent scientific study in late 2024, further reinforcing the need for WHO’s involvement.
What This Means for Global Health
With the resolution now adopted, WHO will re-engage in nuclear health impact research, collaborate with relevant UN bodies, and deliver an updated report to the WHA by 2029. This is a critical step in preparing for and mitigating the catastrophic health consequences of potential nuclear conflict.
Orapuh Journal remains committed to supporting and advancing important global health discourses through collaborative publishing. We are honoured to have been part of this unprecedented editorial alliance that helped shape international health policy.