Humanitarian crises are increasing in scale and complexity, and people living with diabetes (PLWD) remain among the most at risk. Disrupted care, medication shortages, and fragile health systems make survival and long-term health far more difficult — yet diabetes is still not systematically prioritized in emergency response. The annual Symposium serves as the leading global forum for driving practical, coordinated solutions.

Opening Plenary Session 

Join Access Accelerated Executive Director, Herb Riband for the Opening Plenary session, Global Funding Changes and Implications for Diabetes in Crises, on Thursday, 16 October at 0900-10:30 CEST

The opening plenary session will address the evolving global funding landscape and its implications for diabetes care in humanitarian crises. With major shifts in health and humanitarian financing reshaping how services are resourced and delivered, the session will consider impacts across multiple levels, including frontline service delivery, national and regional coordination, academic research, and global partnerships. Speakers will share perspectives on current challenges, ongoing priorities, and opportunities to sustain care under constrained resources. The discussion will also explore approaches to monitor and measure funding impacts, with a focus on accountability, resilience, and sustainability.

Hosted by the International Alliance for Diabetes Action (IADA) in collaboration with the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine Centre for Global Chronic Conditions, and Brigham and Women’s Hospital, and generously supported by The Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust.