A recent report by the Global Coalition for WHO Action on Gun Violence reveals that the World Health Organization (WHO) has significantly deprioritized gun violence as a public health issue. The report, based on an analysis of over 3,200 resolutions from the World Health Assembly from 1948 to 2024, found that only 39 have mentioned violence in a generic way, with none explicitly discussing firearms. This marks a troubling trend where an issue that has been critical to many communities, particularly in the Americas, Caribbean, and Southern Africa, receives minimal acknowledgment from a leading global health authority.

In the last 15 years, the absence of gun violence as a subject of focus has worsened, despite it being one of the leading causes of death among children, adolescents, and young adults in several regions. The report highlights alarming statistics: over 250,000 people die annually due to gun violence, with millions sustaining injuries and trauma. This not only presents a substantial public health challenge but also leads to significant emotional and economic costs for societies affected by this violence.

The study's findings have prompted calls for the WHO to reassess its priorities and take more concrete actions to address gun violence as a crucial aspect of public health. Advocacy groups and health organizations argue that recognizing and tackling gun violence more vigorously can save lives and improve health outcomes, especially for vulnerable populations. The ongoing lack of focus raises concerns about the future health frameworks and policies that overlook the implications of gun violence on community health and safety.