Walk the Talk Webinar: Accounting for commitments to people living with NCDs in the post-HLM4 era

Date: 27 November 2025
Time: 14:00-15:30 CET 
Location: Zoom

The fourth UN High Level Meeting on NCDs and Mental Health (HLM4) that took place on 25th September, brought governments from every region to reaffirm their shared commitment to tackling noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) — the world’s leading causes of death and disability. 

The NCD Political Declaration, referred for adoption at HLM4, for the first time, recognises the role of lived experience engagement throughout the development of national plans and policies and the unique experiences and expertise of people with lived experience. This achievement should be celebrated. However, the Declaration has some serious shortcomings, with only one reference to the role of civil society. 

With shrinking civic space, social participation (mentioned in the Declaration), where communities and civil society are empowered through inclusive participation in decision-making processes across the policy cycle and at all levels of the system, is essential to advance the NCD response.  

This Walk the Talk webinar will explore the HLM4 outcomes with a focus on meaningful engagement, lived experience, and social participation. Participants will analyse how these themes can inform advocacy opportunities in 2026 and beyond. The session will highlight the importance of technical guidance and accountability mechanisms in supporting governments to translate commitments into concrete action. The webinar will also elevate the voices of civil society and people with lived experience to help shape stronger, more inclusive NCD responses at national, regional, and global levels. 

This webinar is possible thanks to NCD Alliance’s partnership with The Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust.