Beijing conference adopts traditional medicine declaration

The reported statements address the potential of evidence-based care, not an endorsement of every traditional product.

Women leaders, traditional midwives and health representatives met on 19–20 November.

The regional dialogue asked how services could better meet communities’ health needs.

Participants called for practical tools to support maternal and neonatal care in Indigenous communities.

The meeting ended on 20 November; PAHO published its account on the following day.

The WHO account says participants from 85 countries attended the conference that adopted the declaration.

Beijing hosted the WHO co-sponsored conference with Chinese national health and traditional medicine authorities.

Adopted at the conference, the declaration advocated cooperation over traditional medicine policy and its responsible use.

Publication date: WHO described a Group of Friends discussion about research, data and shared policy priorities.

Publication date: participants emphasized Indigenous Peoples’ voices and rights when discussing future cooperation.