Health for All Without Financial Hardship

On 12 December, the world commemorates International Universal Health Coverage (UHC) Day, a global call to strengthen health systems so that everyone can access quality care without falling into financial

• The United Nations first endorsed universal health coverage in 2012, recognising it as a core global health goal. (United Nations background)

• Universal health coverage means that all people can access essential health services, including preventive, curative, rehabilitative, and palliative care, without suffering financial hardship. (About UHC)

• UHC is a target under Sustainable Development Goal 3 (SDG 3.8). (SDG reference)

• Millions of people worldwide still lack basic health services or remain vulnerable to catastrophic out-of-pocket expenditure. (UN overview)

The 2025 Theme: “Unaffordable health costs? We’re sick of it!”

The theme for UHC Day 2025 is “Unaffordable health costs? We’re sick of it!” (UN announcement)

This year’s message focuses on the realities many people face when choosing between health care and basic necessities such as food, education, or housing. (UN campaign page)

The global movement is urging governments to:

1. Make bolder investments in health systems. (UHC2030 call)

2. Ensure financial protection for all. (UN campaign)

3. Elevate UHC as a top political priority.

Key Challenges Slowing Down UHC Progress

• Excessive out-of-pocket payments continue to push households into poverty. (UN overview)

• Inequitable access persists, especially for people in rural or marginalised communities. (International Days summary)

• Weak health systems, workforce shortages, and inadequate infrastructure hinder progress. (International Days summary)

• Financing gaps continue to undermine long-term efforts. (UHC Day 2024 report)

Why Universal Health Coverage Matters

• Health is a fundamental human right, and UHC is one of the most effective ways to protect that right. (About UHC)

• Strong health systems support disease prevention, early detection, and emergency preparedness. (WHO campaign page)

• UHC contributes to reducing poverty, strengthening communities, and creating more resilient societies. (UN background)

How Everyone Can Take Action

1. Raise awareness about the consequences of unaffordable health care.

2. Advocate for policy change, including reforms in health financing.

3. Join global coalitions such as UHC2030 to support coordinated action.

4. Support primary health care initiatives, especially in underserved settings.

5. Amplify the UHC Day message on social platforms using campaign materials and hashtags.

A Call to Action for Orapuh

At Orapuh, we can contribute to the global UHC movement by:

• Publishing community-centred stories on the impact of health costs

• Advocating with local stakeholders for better health financing

• Partnering with organisations working toward universal access

• Supporting initiatives that strengthen primary health care delivery

Moving Forward Together

International Universal Health Coverage Day reminds us that no one should be denied health care because of cost. The theme “Unaffordable health costs? We’re sick of it!” reinforces the urgent need for equitable financing, political will, and stronger health systems. It is time for communities, governments, and global actors to work together so that health for all becomes a lived reality everywhere.