RFK Jr. ‘rejects’ a U.N. declaration on non-communicable diseases

NPR / Goats & Soda, September 26, 2025

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See also "Kennedy says US rejects..." shared by Kul Gautam

Click here for the 'zero draft' of the resolution dated 13 May 2025

Summary
The article reports that U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced the United States will reject a new U.N. political declaration on noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) and mental health. He objected to what he called “destructive gender ideology” embedded in the language, and claims the declaration goes beyond the U.N.’s proper mandate. 

Despite U.S. dissent, the declaration has strong global support. Because of the U.S. objection, the measure will not be adopted by consensus but will instead go to a vote in the General Assembly in October 2025.

Quotes

• “We cannot accept language that pushes destructive gender ideology … [or] claims of a constitutional or international right to abortion.” (The Guardian)

• “The unity we saw today proves that most governments are ready to take the baton on NCDs.” (The Guardian)

• “The United States will walk away from the declaration, but we will never walk away from the world or our commitment to end chronic disease.” (Reuters)

• Experts have criticized the document for omitting strong measures (e.g. taxation of alcohol, tobacco, sugary drinks) that had been in earlier drafts. (The Guardian)

• “The last-minute moves mean the draft declaration will have to face a vote in the GA — most likely next month.” (Health Policy Watch)