Current challenges in psychiatry issues on equity in mental health care in the light of the WHO health for all

The problem of global inequity in access to health care - including mental health care - remains a persistent challenge worldwide. The disparities are largely the product of social, economic, and political structures. If we are to address health inequity, targeted medical interventions are not sufficient. It calls for a transformation of the systems and policies that shape daily life. Bridging these gaps demands both local leadership and international solidarity. Marginalized groups—whether defined by ethnicity, gender identity, poverty or migratory status—face systemic barriers that demand more than superficial reforms but empowerment and provision of culturally competent care, without institutional biases. We need to integrate equity into all layers of health and social policy. International professional organizations may play an important role but the crucial role of UN agencies needs support and recognition when they bring forward actions like safeguarding the human rights of all marginalized groups regardless of their legal status and strengthening access to mental health care. Marginalized people remain marginalized if governments disregard responsibility and let them stay at the edge of society.