The World Health Organization (WHO) has launched a new Commission on Social Connection, to tackle loneliness as a serious health problem and promote social connection as a priority for all countries.
The Commission, co-chaired by U.S. Surgeon General Dr Vivek Murthy and African Union Youth Envoy Chido Mpemba, will work for three years to analyse the role of social connection in improving health and well-being for people of all ages and backgrounds. It will also recommend solutions to build social connections at a large scale and in different settings.
The Commission consists of 11 policy-makers, leaders and advocates from various countries and sectors. They will produce a flagship report by the mid-point of their term and define a global agenda on social connection.
Social isolation and loneliness are widespread and affect the health and well-being of people of all age groups and regions. One in four older people experience social isolation and between 5–15% of adolescents experience loneliness, according to research findings. However, these figures are likely to be underestimations.
“High rates of social isolation and loneliness around the world have serious consequences for health and well-being. People without enough strong social connections are at higher risk of stroke, anxiety, dementia, depression, suicide and more,” said WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. “This WHO Commission will help establish social connection as a global health priority and share the most promising interventions.”
Lack of social connection can also lead to poorer education and economic outcomes, as well as lower social development and innovation. It can also increase the risk of violence, conflict and extremism.
The COVID-19 pandemic and its social and economic impacts have worsened the situation of social isolation and loneliness for many people, especially those who are already vulnerable or marginalized.
“I am thrilled to work closely with an outstanding group of Commissioners on advancing social connection – a vital component of well-being. Together, we can build a world that is less lonely, healthier, and more resilient,” said U.S. Surgeon General Dr Vivek Murthy. “Given the profound health and societal consequences of loneliness and isolation, we have an obligation to make the same investments in rebuilding the social fabric of society that we have made in addressing other global health concerns, such as tobacco use, obesity, and the addiction crisis.”
The Commission will also highlight the importance of tolerance and respect for diversity among different religions, cultures and beliefs. It will showcase examples of how social connection can enhance the well-being of communities and societies and foster peace and harmony.
“Young people are not immune to loneliness. Social isolation can affect anyone, of any age, anywhere,” said Chido Mpemba, African Union Youth Envoy. “Across Africa and beyond, we must redefine the narrative around loneliness. Investments in social connection are critical to creating productive, resilient and stable economies that promote the well-being of current and future generations.”
The Commission on Social Connection, supported by a Secretariat based at WHO, will hold its first leadership-level meeting from 6 to 8 December 2023. More Commissioners may be confirmed at a later date.