International Universal Health Coverage Day
Next: December 12, 2026
Health care for everyone, everywhere.
The story
Where it comes from
On 12 December 2012 the UN General Assembly unanimously endorsed a resolution urging countries to speed up progress towards universal health coverage: the idea that everyone, everywhere, should get the quality health care they need without facing financial hardship. Five years later, on 12 December 2017, the Assembly proclaimed the anniversary International Universal Health Coverage Day in resolution 72/138. UHC2030, a global partnership of governments, international organisations and civil society, coordinates the day.
How it's celebrated
Each 12 December, health advocates share the stories of people still waiting for care, celebrate what has been achieved, and call on leaders to make bigger and smarter investments in health. Groups are encouraged to make commitments that move the world closer to health for all by 2030. A simple way to join in is to thank the nurses, doctors and community health workers near you.
Did you know
- WHO estimates that in 2023 about 4.6 billion people were still not fully covered by essential health services.
- Japan reached universal health insurance in April 1961, when every resident became covered by a public insurance scheme.
- Thailand reached universal coverage in 2002 with a tax-funded scheme first known for its 30-baht charge per visit, which was later dropped.
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