Reinventing donor co-ordination to beat neglected tropical diseases

Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) are a diverse group of diseases that threaten 1.5 billion people worldwide and thrive in conditions of extreme poverty. While NTDs account for about 170 000 deaths a year, they contribute more significantly to blindness, severe disfigurement, disability, stigma and discrimination - often making it impossible for those affected to escape poverty. By keeping children out of school and adults out of work, and excluding the diseased from society, NTDs deprive families, communities and nations from reaching their social and economic potential. These diseases persist despite proven, low‑cost solutions for prevention and treatment.