Dear GlobalSkin Members,
As many of you are aware, in a historic move to elevate skin health on the global public health agenda, Member States at the 78th World Health Assembly (WHA78) adopted the resolution titled “Skin Diseases as a Global Public Health Priority.” It is time to celebrate this momentous achievement for skin patients everywhere! The resolution mandates the development of a Global Plan of Action that will focus on prevention, early detection, effective treatment, and long-term care, while promoting equitable access to affordable, high-quality services and integrating skin health into broader health systems. Now that the resolution has passed, GlobalSkin will continue to be incredibly involved in post-WHA activities including working on the consultation process that will inform the coming Global Action Plan.
It was a pleasure to see so many of you at the GlobalSkin 2025 Champion Conference that took place in Prague in April. We had an astonishing 217 delegates in attendance representing 170 patient organizations covering 28 disease areas from 59 countries. I was in awe to see people from all regions of the world! We received amazing feedback from our members and speakers about the content and quality of the conference, especially around the AI-generated simultaneous translation, buddy program, Forums, plenaries, workshops, youth delegate meeting, and the 10th Anniversary Gala. I want to thank all of you that attended as it would not have been possible without your commitment to GlobalSkin.
I’m looking forward to the GlobalSkin Annual General Meeting (AGM) on June 25 at 9:00 EDT as it gives us a chance to share how we are implementing our strategic plan, and for you to take part in key areas of discussion. Full Member organizations will have the opportunity to vote on important motions that shape the direction of GlobalSkin’s business. The AGM will highlight GlobalSkin’s initiatives – past, present, and future. The meeting will also feature an interactive segment designed to gather input from YOU, our members, on a variety of important topics. Don’t forget to prepare for your attendance at the AGM by visiting the Member area of GlobalSkin’s website (sign-in required) where you can find everything you might need in advance of the meeting.
It has been my honor to serve as GlobalSkin Board President and being able to represent every one of you. I am grateful to our out-going Board Members, Michelle Capon - GlobalSkin Secretary, and Tran Hong Truong - GlobalSkin Board Director, for your dedication over the years. I would also like to thank everyone who expressed an interest in playing a leadership role in our organization by applying to run in this election. The election results will be announced June 25 during the AGM, and I hope to see you there.
I look forward to the opportunity of continuing to work and represent you all!
Gratefully,
Marc Yale
GlobalSkin Board President
