The World Health Organization (WHO) is intensifying its efforts to integrate traditional medicine into global health systems, responding to the reality that half of the world’s population lacks adequate access to essential healthcare.
The second WHO Global Traditional Medicine Summit will take place from December 17 to 19 in New Delhi, India, spotlighting the role of traditional, complementary, and integrative medicine (TCIM) in addressing modern health needs.
Dr. Shyama Kuruvilla, acting Director of the WHO Global Traditional Medicine Centre, highlighted that traditional medicine is widely used across WHO member states, with 40–90 per cent of populations relying on it for healthcare.
She noted that traditional medicine is often the most accessible or preferred option, offering holistic, personalized care that supports overall well-being.
The summit will emphasise evidence-based approaches, safety, and equitable integration of traditional medicine into national health systems.
WHO is introducing resources such as a global library with over 1.6 million scientific publications and a research priority roadmap to guide investment, research, and ethical practice in traditional medicine.
WHO Chief Scientist Dr. Sylvie Briand noted the challenge of standardising traditional medicine due to its diversity and personalised approach.
She stressed that AI and modern research tools can help identify effective compounds and maximize therapeutic benefits, while minimizing risks.
Despite its widespread use, global investment in traditional medicine research remains low.
The summit seeks to strengthen collaboration among governments, civil society, and researchers, aiming to harness TCIM’s potential to complement modern healthcare, especially for chronic diseases, mental health, and underserved populations.
The initiative reflects WHO’s dual commitment: advancing scientific understanding of traditional medicine while respecting cultural heritage and promoting ethical, inclusive healthcare practices worldwide.
