Editorial: Global Leaders Urge G7 to Recognize Brain Health as Economic Priority

The authors of a new editorial arguing for brain health as a pillar of economic prosperity
As Canada takes the helm, a new editorial calls on the G7 to recognize brain health and brain skills as core economic priorities.

CBRS and global experts have released a new editorial, based on a policy concept note, calling on the G7 to recognize brain health and brain skills as core economic priorities. With Canada chairing the G7 in 2025, this is a pivotal moment to put brain capital at the heart of economic policy. 

Why Brain Capital Matters for Economic Growth 

The future of economic resilience depends on brain capital—the combination of brain health and cognitive skills that fuels innovation, productivity, and adaptability. Yet, despite its critical role, brain capital is missing from major economic strategies, leaving a significant gap in policy planning.  

The evidence shows that failing to invest in brain capital has serious economic consequences because: 

  • The workforce is changing: Half of the top emerging job skills identified in the 2025 Future of Jobs Report are brain-related (e.g. creativity, analytical thinking).
  • The economic impact of brain disorders is massive: Brain disorders cost the global economy an estimated $2.5–$8.5 trillion annually in lost productivity. 
  • Aging populations and workforce stress are on the rise: Without investment in brain health, economies risk lower productivity, higher healthcare costs, and declining innovation. 

What’s at Stake If We Don’t Act? 

Failing to prioritize brain capital could mean: 

  • Workforce decline: Brain-related conditions already impact 1 in 5 Canadians, limiting economic participation. 
  • Innovation slowdown: A healthy, resilient workforce drives scientific and technological breakthroughs. 
  • Economic stagnation: Without cognitive resilience, countries will struggle to compete in the global economy. 

A Blueprint for the G7 

To future-proof the global economy, the editorial’s authors call on the G7 to: 

  1. Establish a G7 Brain Economy Working Group to integrate brain capital into health, finance, workforce, and innovation policies. 
  2. Host the first-ever G7 Brain Economy Summit to drive global action. 
  3. Align with the private sector to encourage corporate investment in brain health and productivity. 

From National Advocacy to Global Action 

CBRS has long advocated for brain research as a driver of not only better health outcomes but of economic growth, innovation, and workforce resilience. Key milestones include: 

With Canada leading the G7 in 2025, we see an unprecendented opportunity to elevate brain health and brain research on the global stage as critical drivers of economic resilience, workforce productivity, and prosperity.

Read the editorial.

Read the policy concept note.