WHO Secures $1 Billion for 2025–2028: A Strategic Investment in Global Health
The World Health Organization (WHO) has secured $1 billion in funding commitments for its 2025–2028 budget cycle, marking a significant step towards strengthening global health systems and ensuring equitable access to healthcare worldwide. This funding comprises nearly $700 million in new pledges and $300 million in reaffirmed commitments from various countries and organizations.
Key Donors and Their Contributions
At the WHO Investment Round held during the World Health Summit in Berlin, several nations and organizations announced substantial contributions:
- Germany: Committed nearly $400 million over four years, including more than $260 million in new voluntary funding.
- France and Norway: Co-hosted the Investment Round and pledged significant support, although specific amounts were not disclosed.
- Wellcome Trust: A UK-based charitable foundation, pledged $50 million.
- WHO Foundation: Announced a $50 million commitment, including contributions from private sector partners like Boehringer Ingelheim and Novo Nordisk.
- Other Philanthropic Organizations: The Institute for Philanthropy, Resolve to Save Lives, and the World Diabetes Foundation each committed or recommitted $10 million.
Additionally, 16 African governments have pledged support, with the African Union reaffirming its commitment to WHO’s initiatives.
Strategic Allocation of Funds
The secured funds will support WHO’s Fourteenth General Programme of Work (GPW 14) for 2025–2028, focusing on the following strategic priorities:
- Promote Health: Advocating for healthier populations through disease prevention and health education.
- Provide Health: Supporting countries in delivering essential health services.
- Protect Health: Strengthening emergency preparedness, surveillance, and response systems.
- Power Health: Investing in data systems, workforce training, and research.
Cross-cutting themes such as climate and health, gender equity, and digital transformation will also receive increased focus and funding.
Impact and Future Outlook
The $1 billion funding is a significant step towards WHO’s total budget need of $11.1 billion for the 2025–2028 period. With $4 billion expected from Member States, there remains a funding gap of $7.1 billion to be filled through voluntary contributions.
WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus emphasized that these investments are crucial for promoting health, ensuring stable societies, and preparing for future health emergencies.
The organization continues to seek reforms to ensure financial stability and reduce reliance on a few major contributors. Member countries have agreed to increase mandatory contributions by 20% over two years, aiming to cover up to 50% of the budget by 2030–2031, up from the current 16%.
Conclusion
The successful mobilization of $1 billion for WHO’s 2025–2028 budget reflects a strong global commitment to health equity and preparedness. As the organization works towards its strategic goals, continued support from Member States and partners will be essential in building resilient health systems and addressing the world’s most pressing health challenges.
FAQs
What is the total budget requirement for WHO’s 2025–2028 program?
WHO’s Fourteenth General Programme of Work (GPW 14) requires a total of $11.1 billion, with $4 billion expected from Member States and the remaining $7.1 billion to be secured through voluntary contributions.
Which countries have made significant contributions to the $1 billion funding?
Germany committed nearly $400 million, including over $260 million in new voluntary funding. France and Norway also pledged significant support, though specific amounts were not disclosed.
How will the funds be utilized?
The funds will support WHO’s strategic priorities, including promoting health, providing health services, protecting health through emergency preparedness, and powering health via investments in data systems and workforce training.
What reforms are being implemented to ensure WHO’s financial stability?
WHO is working to increase mandatory contributions from Member States to cover up to 50% of the budget by 2030–2031, reducing reliance on voluntary donations.
How can additional funds be raised to meet the remaining budget gap?
WHO continues to engage with Member States, philanthropic organizations, and private sector partners to secure the remaining $7.1 billion needed for the 2025–2028 period.
