The second WHO Global Summit on Traditional Medicine concluded today in New Delhi, highlighting a pivotal moment for global health. The event attracted over 16,000 online registrations and engaged 800 delegates from more than 100 countries, including officials from over 20 nations. With a lineup of 160 speakers, the summit fostered discussions on how traditional medicine (TM) can bolster health systems through safe, evidence-based, and affordable care.
Energy filled the air as ministers, scientists, Indigenous leaders, and practitioners united to advance the WHO Global Traditional Medicine Strategy 2025–2034. This summit was not merely about dialogue; it focused on actionable solutions. The WHO introduced the Traditional Medicine Global Library, an innovative digital platform that consolidates 1.6 million resources on TM, ranging from scientific studies to Indigenous knowledge.
The Traditional Medicine Global Library features advanced tools like Evidence Gap Maps and an AI-powered resource, TMGL GPT. This initiative aims to transform access to reliable information and expedite research on traditional medicine globally.
Innovations and Commitments for the Future
Innovation took center stage with the launch of Health & Heritage Innovations (H2I), designed to foster groundbreaking ideas that merge traditional practices with modern technologies, including AI and genomics. From over 1,000 submissions, 21 finalists were selected during the summit and will enter a year-long acceleration program. This initiative aims to refine prototypes, provide scientific and regulatory guidance, and connect innovators with policymakers and investors.
In addition, the WHO announced the formation of the Strategic and Technical Advisory Group on Traditional, Complementary and Integrative Medicine (STAG-TM). This new advisory body, composed of 19 independent experts, will guide the Global Strategy by shaping research priorities, developing standards, and advising on the integration of traditional medicine into health systems. At its inaugural meeting held during the summit, STAG-TM identified urgent priorities, including evidence generation, preservation of traditional knowledge, digital innovation, and capacity building.
Countries rallied around the Delhi Declaration, with commitments from 26 Member States. This collective pledge signifies a new era for traditional medicine, focusing on its integration into primary health care, enhancing regulation and safety standards, investing in research, and establishing interoperable data systems to track outcomes.
Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, emphasized the importance of these commitments. “Through the Delhi Commitment, countries have agreed not only on why traditional medicine matters—but on how to act,” he stated. He noted that traditional medicine can address pressing health challenges in modern society, including the increasing burden of noncommunicable diseases and inequitable access to health services.
Looking ahead, the WHO plans to collaborate with Member States to actualize these commitments. Efforts will focus on expanding access to trusted knowledge, accelerating innovation, and embedding traditional medicine into health systems worldwide. The Global Traditional Medicine Strategy 2025–2034 lays out an ambitious vision for a future where health care is more inclusive, culturally grounded, and resilient.
