A global agenda for dignity and health: a personal opinion

Dignity is central to good-quality health delivery. Every encounter—whether at home, in education, at work, or in health settings—has the potential to be a positive dignity encounter. Dignity is rooted in cultural context and based on values that include holiness, freedom, responsibility, duty, and serving others. It comes from a caring community. We need to work in collaboration with citizens, government, and other organizations to ensure that the conditions and support are in place to make this happen. There is a need to deliver evidence-based care that incorporates human experience in guideline development, rooted in dignity for all citizens. This commentary is based on my own personal experience in the field and provides a basis for a future special issue to continue the discourse on dignity.