UN agencies pledge support for NCD control in Bangladesh

The UN agency representatives praised the government’s leadership and reiterated their commitment to align their programmes with the National Multi-sectoral Action Plan of Bangladesh and the ‘Joint Declaration’.

Health services division secretary Md Saidur Rahman chaired the meeting, held at the old conference room of public administration ministry. 

The meeting was also attended by high-ranking government officials and representatives of various UN agencies including UN Resident Coordinator’s Office, WHO, UNICEF, UNDP, WFP, UNFPA, FAO, IOM, ILO, UNOPS and UNIDO.

Currently, the death rate rose to more than 71 percent with non-communicable diseases, including heart disease, diabetes, cancer, chronic respiratory diseases and mental health problems in Bangladesh, according to participants. 

Out of the deaths, more than a half was premature, they added. 

The growing burden of diseases is having a significant impact on the country's economic productivity, household financial security and the achievement of national development goals.

Health services secretary said realizing the seriousness of the situation, the government signed a 'Joint Declaration' in August 2025 with participation of 35 ministries and departments.

The joint declaration was set a historic milestone for a comprehensive Whole-of-Government approach to the prevention of non-communicable diseases, mental health and injuries, he said. 

Bangladesh has built a strong multi-sectoral foundation by implementing it, but its successful implementation required coordinated, well-organized and consistent support within the UN agencies, he added.

The secretary said that more than 20 UN agencies are working in many areas including food systems, education, urbanization, climate resilience, labour, gender equality and social protection. 

He called for greater coordination and coherence to avoid duplication and ensure a common message across the ministries.

Dr Rajesh Narwal, WHO Deputy Representative to Bangladesh, highlighted WHO’s commitment to providing technical assistance and policy advice to build a coordinated and multi-sectoral response in support of governments and UN partners. 

He said that addressing the NCDs requirement of ensuring health in all policies, which demanded consistent and active engagement of all sectors.

Participants also hoped that they would continue their efforts to strengthen coordination, joint programmes and accelerate the achievement of national and global goals, including the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Universal Health Coverage, reports BSS.