Minister Moshe Arbel at the UN General Assembly: "For too long, mental health has not received the attention it deserves."
Minister of Health and Interior Moshe Arbel delivered a speech today (Wednesday) at the UN General Assembly. Prior to the speech, Minister Arbel together with his Moroccan counterpart Prof. Khaled Ait Taleb submitted a joint statement for the two countries regarding the prevention, treatment and dealing with epidemics.
"The COVID-19 epidemic shocked the world, disrupted economies, damaged the livelihood of many, undermined family ties, and created many challenges in the education system. The epidemic severely shook the health systems in many countries, led to loss of life as well as long-term health problems that we are still studying" Arbel said.
He further added: "The international community has identified two essential key actions at this stage: the reform of international health regulations, and the formulation of an international tool for preparedness and response to an epidemic. The State of Israel strongly supports these efforts, and is proud to be a partner in submitting the declaration together with the Kingdom of Morocco."
Minister Moshe Arbel mentions mental health and states: "For 75 years now, we have been committed to promoting physical and mental health and well-being. But for too long, mental health has not received the attention it deserves, and has not received the necessary resources. Now that the importance of mental health has been recognized, among other things As the lessons of the epidemic, we must ensure the allocation of adequate resources and funding."