Universal Health Coverage (UHC) is a fundamental human right and a cornerstone of sustainable development. It ensures that all individuals and communities have access to quality health services without suffering financial hardship. Despite progress in global health, millions of people, especially adolescents and young people, still lack access to essential health services. The Youth Platform (TYP) is committed to advocating for UHC, particularly in underserved communities where health disparities remain a pressing challenge. 

UHC is not just about health; it is about equity, dignity, and opportunity. When people have access to affordable, quality health services, they can lead productive lives, contribute to their communities, and break the cycle of poverty. For the young people, UHC means access to sexual and reproductive health services, mental health support, HIV and TB prevention and treatment, and other critical services that empower them to thrive. 

However, achieving UHC requires addressing systemic barriers such as inadequate health infrastructure, insufficient funding, and social inequalities. TYP believes that UHC is achievable, but it demands collective action, political will, and sustained investment. 

TYP’s Advocacy Priorities for UHC 

1. Youth Centered Health Services: Adolescents and young people often face unique health challenges, including high rates of HIV, STI, teenage pregnancies, and mental health issues. TYP advocates for the integration of adolescents -friendly health services into national UHC frameworks, ensuring that young people can access care without stigma or discrimination. 
2. Community-Led Solutions: Communities are at the heart of UHC. TYP continue to works with young people, local leaders, peer educators, and community health workers to design and implement health programs that address the specific needs of adolescents and young people. By empowering communities, we can build sustainable health systems that leave no one behind. 
3. Increased Domestic Health Financing: Achieving UHC requires increased investment in health systems. TYP calls on governments to allocate more resources to health, particularly in underserved areas this can be done by increasing health funding through CDF among other avenues. We also advocate for innovative financing mechanisms, in addition to the current health insurance schemes, to reduce out-of-pocket expenses for vulnerable populations. 
4. Addressing Social Determinants of Health: Health is influenced by factors like education, gender equality, and economic stability. TYP promotes multisectoral approaches to UHC, addressing these social determinants to create healthier communities. 
5. Accountability and Transparency: TYP advocates for stronger accountability mechanisms to ensure that health resources are used effectively and equitably. We will continue to work with stakeholders to monitor health service delivery and hold decision-makers accountable for their commitments to UHC. 

TYP’s Call to Action 

Achieving UHC is not just the responsibility of governments; it requires the active participation of all stakeholders, young people including civil society, the private sector, communities and partners. 

• Governments to prioritize UHC in national development agendas and increase health budgets. 
• Donors and International Partners to support health system strengthening and youth-focused health initiatives. 
• Communities and Young People to demand their right to health and participate in shaping health policies and programs. 
• Governments to increase domestic health financing towards prevention.

The Time to Act is Now 

The COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the importance of resilient health systems and the urgent need for UHC. As we rebuild from the pandemic, we have a unique opportunity to reimagine health systems that are equitable, inclusive, and sustainable. 

TYP is committed to leading the charge for UHC in Zambia and beyond. Through advocacy, community engagement, local and international partnerships, we are working to ensure that every young person, regardless of their background, can access the health services they need to thrive. 

Join us in the push for Universal Health Coverage. Together, we can build a healthier, more equitable future for all. 

For more information about TYP’s advocacy work, visit our website and social media.