On September 5, 2025, a historic milestone was achieved in the fight for the rights of people with albinism. The World Health Organization (WHO) approved the inclusion of broad-spectrum sunscreen in its Model List of Essential Medicines, both for adults and children. With this decision, a product that had long been inaccessible to millions of people has now become a globally recognized public health tool.
From an Unaffordable Luxury to a Recognized Right
In Sub-Saharan Africa, living with albinism means facing constant and dangerous sun exposure. Daily burns, skin lesions, and the extremely high risk of developing skin cancer at a young age are the direct consequences of lacking access to adequate photoprotection.
Until now, sunscreen had been considered a cosmetic product — a luxury far beyond the reach of most. The WHO’s decision changes this reality: it recognizes that protecting the skin from the sun is not only a matter of health, but above all, a matter of human rights.
This recognition represents a paradigm shift for the health and dignity of people with albinism.
Why Is It Important to Be an “Essential Medicine”?
Inclusion in the WHO’s Model List of Essential Medicines is not merely symbolic: it carries very real and transformative implications.
First, it prioritizes purchase and distribution by health systems. When a product is on this list, Ministries of Health can more easily add it to their national lists, acquire it through public programs, and distribute it in health centers, even in rural and remote areas.
Second, it opens the door to pricing policies and regulation. As an essential medicine, governments can centralize purchases, launch public tenders, and ensure quality standards, thereby reducing costs for the most vulnerable populations.
Third, it provides crucial medical and legal recognition. Sunscreen is no longer seen as a cosmetic, but as a preventive public health tool, which may lead to coverage by health insurance, provision in schools, prisons, or refugee camps.
A Backing That Opens Doors
The inclusion of sunscreen in this list marks a turning point. From now on, governments have the international endorsement to integrate it into their health systems, finance it with public funds, and ensure its equitable distribution.
This achievement is also the result of global advocacy. The Global Albinism Alliance, along with partner organizations, has worked for years to ensure that the voices of people with albinism are heard in international decision-making spaces.
Beyond Suncare’s Role
At Beyond Suncare we know that photoprotection is much more than a cream: it is the key to living without fear. For years we have been distributing sunscreens adapted to the needs of people with albinism in countries such as the Democratic Republic of Congo, Malawi, Rwanda, and Uganda. We do this hand in hand with local organizations, strengthening networks and building sustainable solutions.
The WHO’s decision not only validates our mission, but also provides us with new tools to demand public policies that guarantee the inclusion of people with albinism. Because without access to protection, there is no future.
Beyond Suncare works on the ground to guarantee access to sun protection and inclusion
What Impacts Could This Measure Have?
Beyond the practical benefits, this decision has fundamental social impacts. It raises visibility and reduces stigma: recognizing the medical necessity of photoprotection helps combat the idea that self-care is optional or cosmetic. On the contrary, it reinforces the dignity and human rights of people with albinism, showing that their health deserves the same attention as anyone else’s.
Looking Ahead
This international recognition will save thousands of lives and represents a step toward a more just and inclusive society. But the true victory will come when every child with albinism has guaranteed access to sunscreen, to education, and to a life free from discrimination.
Your support can transform exclusion into real opportunities.
At Beyond Suncare we celebrate this milestone with our eyes set on the future. We will continue working to ensure that equal rights for people with albinism become a reality across every corner of Africa.
Join this historic change. Make your donation today with Bizum: 03864 and help us ensure that no one is left behind.
