The Paro Declaration on universal access to people-centred mental health care and services was adopted in 2022 by the Member States of WHO South-East Asia Region, marking a commitment to promote and facilitate access to community-based mental health services. This declaration paved the way for the introduction of the Mental health action plan for the WHO South-East Asia Region 2023–2030.

The action plan has four main objectives, with Objective 2 focusing on providing comprehensive, integrated, and responsive mental health and social care services in community-based settings. Under Objective 2, an extensive menu of options is provided to expand and strengthen community-based mental health services in WHO South-East Asia Region Member States.

To track the progress of the expansion of community-based mental health services, indicators are included in the action plan. These include the number of community-based mental health centres that provide care and support options for people with mental health conditions and psychosocial disabilities in the community, such as day care centres and rehabilitation centres. Other indicators include the proportion of general hospitals with mental health units and the number of supported living facilities, including both long and short-stay options.

Overall, the adoption of the Paro Declaration on universal access to people-centred mental health care and services marks a significant step towards improving access to community-based mental health services in WHO South-East Asia Region Member States. The Mental health action plan for 2023–2030 will continue to build upon this commitment by expanding and strengthening these services, ultimately benefiting individuals and communities alike.