For the first time, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) has called for boys to be included in HPV vaccination programmes.

The new Political Declaration on the prevention and control of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) and the promotion of mental health and well-being was approved by 175 member states at the UN General Assembly on 15 December 2025, and includes language on the need to reach boys. This language marks a historic shift. It sends a clear global signal that HPV vaccination should protect every child, girls and boys.

• Our response to the United Nation’s 2025 Declaration on Non-Communicable Diseases and Mental Health is available to view here.